Trump says oil tankers are resuming transit through Hormuz after US-Iran memorandum

U.S. President Donald Trump posted on his social-media platform that oil-filled ships are "starting to move" out of the Strait of Hormuz, describing the route as safe and secure. The statement came after officials confirmed that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the United States and Iran had been signed by Trump, U.S. Vice-President JD Vance and Iranian parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf.

The MoU, described by a senior administration official as a framework that will allow free passage through the strait for the next 60 days, also includes provisions for a ceasefire in Lebanon and discussions on sanctions relief and Iran’s nuclear programme. Details of the agreement are expected to be released within 24-48 hours, and a formal signing ceremony is planned for Geneva on Friday.

Despite Trump’s claim, tracking firm Kpler reported that only a single commodities carrier was detected crossing the Hormuz waterway on Monday, indicating that commercial traffic remains minimal. Shipping companies and insurers have said the safety of the route is still uncertain and that many shippers consider it too risky to resume regular transits.

In related developments, Israel’s military said it had killed two Hamas commanders in Gaza, while Hezbollah welcomed the US-Iran memorandum, calling it a comprehensive ceasefire across all fronts. Israeli defence minister Israel Katz reiterated that Israeli forces will remain in security zones in Lebanon, Syria and Gaza indefinitely.

French President Emmanuel Macron announced that a joint France-UK naval mission is prepared to deploy quickly to ensure the strait’s reopening, with the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle ready to operate in the area within a few days. Vice-President Vance described the reopening of Hormuz as a "big win" for the American public, noting that oil prices have already fallen.

The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a full withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon and to address the broader regional conflict.