President Donald Trump had aimed to declare victory in the conflict with Iran by securing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, even signaling a willingness to forgo a nuclear deal.
However, these prospects have dimmed as Tehran issued extensive new conditions for restoring maritime traffic, including the withdrawal of U.S. troops, the lifting of sanctions, and the payment of war reparations.
Tehran’s leverage remains significant, as its missile and drone capabilities continue to disrupt commercial shipping and influence global energy markets. While Trump has publicly claimed the waterway is open and suggested a victory is imminent, U.S. officials maintain that Washington will not accept Iranian-imposed tolls or restrictions on naval passage.
Vice President JD Vance stated that the administration intends to maintain economic pressure on Iran to force long-term policy changes. Tensions escalated further over the weekend following reports of an Iranian missile attack on a United Arab Emirates vessel, signaling a potential for a prolonged and difficult conflict.
