President Donald Trump has offered to permanently open the Strait of Hormuz, describing the move as a gesture to China as peace talks with Iran are set to resume next week. The proposal comes after a United States naval blockade of Iranian ports angered Beijing, which purchases the vast majority of Iran’s oil exports shipped through the vital waterway. Trump said he believes relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping are improving ahead of a planned visit to Beijing.

Washington has agreed in principle to resume negotiations with Tehran after recent talks collapsed. While reports suggested a possible two week extension of the current ceasefire to allow more time for diplomacy, the White House denied formally requesting one. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt said discussions remain productive and that the administration feels optimistic about the prospects of a deal.

The blockade remains in place, with American warships preventing vessels from entering or leaving Iranian ports. Iran has threatened to expand the conflict to key shipping routes, including the Red Sea, if pressure continues. At the same time, Israel and Hezbollah are considering a separate ceasefire proposal, signaling a broader diplomatic push to ease tensions across the region.