Trump rules out Iran talks, says Strait of Hormuz remains open

Washington — President Trump moved to quell speculation about potential negotiations with Iran on Tuesday, flatly declaring that the United States was not engaged in any talks with Tehran and had no plans to initiate them in the foreseeable future.

The statement came as regional tensions continued to simmer over Iran's nuclear programme and broader Middle Eastern geopolitical concerns. By addressing the status of talks directly, Trump appeared intent on signalling a firm position to both Iran and international observers monitoring U.S. foreign policy in the Persian Gulf region.

In the same remarks, Trump emphasised that the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints through which roughly a fifth of global oil trade passes—remained open and operational. The assurance was likely aimed at calming concerns about potential disruptions to international shipping and energy supplies, which have periodically been threatened amid escalating U.S.-Iran tensions.

The dual message underscored the Trump administration's effort to balance a hardline diplomatic stance with reassurances about the stability of vital global trade routes. The Strait's accessibility remains a key concern for economies across Asia, including Singapore, which depends heavily on uninterrupted energy supplies and maritime commerce.