April 18, 2026/

Iran reverses course, closes Strait of Hormuz

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By Sarah Roderick-Fitch
The Center Square

Less than 24 hours after Iran and President Donald Trump touted the Strait of Hormuz open, the Islamic Republic has reportedly reversed course, closing the vital waterway.

In addition to closing the waterway early Saturday, at least two commercial ships were struck by gunfire while attempting to pass through the strait.

Iran confirmed the closure, saying it would remain closed until the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports is lifted.

When Iran announced the reopening of the strait Friday morning, it credited the ceasefire in Lebanon with Israel, giving no indication they would reverse the deal if the naval blockade remained in effect.

“In line with the ceasefire in Lebanon, the passage for all commercial vessels through Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of ceasefire, on the coordinated route already announced by Ports and Maritime Organization of the Islamic Rep. of Iran,” according to a statement from Iran.

Trump spoke to reporters Friday night while returning to Washington, saying he may not extend the ceasefire with Iran set to expire Wednesday, adding the U.S. may have “to start dropping bombs again.”

The president underscored the U.S. has “been pushed around by Iran for 47 years, but not anymore.”

Earlier on Friday, Trump appeared optimistic the two countries were close to a deal, saying Iran had agreed to give up its “nuclear dust.”

The president indicated that talks in Pakistan may resume over the weekend after Vice President JD Vance failed to produce a deal last weekend. The White House has yet to announce a second round of talks; however, Trump has said he has been in direct contact with Iranian officials.

On Monday, Trump announced a total blockade of Iranian ports in an effort to squeeze the regime economically.

In a second Truth Social post Friday morning, the president confirmed the naval blockade on Iran remains in effect “until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete.”

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