US President Donald Trump has declared the Strait of Hormuz is “permanently opening” following talks with China, as tensions remain high in the Middle East and the US moves to increase its military presence in the region.
“China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz. I am doing it for them, also – And the World,” Trump wrote, adding: “This situation (Hormuz) will never happen again. They (China) have agreed not to send weapons to Iran.”
He also said Chinese President Xi Jinping would give him a “big, fat, hug” during a visit, adding: “We are working together smartly, and very well! Doesn’t that beat fighting??? BUT REMEMBER, we are very good at fighting, if we have to – far better than anyone else!!!”
The comments come as reports indicate the US is deploying an additional 10,000 troops to the Middle East, while enforcing a naval blockade in the region.
Audio released by US Central Command warned vessels: “If you do not comply with this blockade we will use force… The whole of the US navy is ready to force compliance.”
Iran has responded with threats, with a senior adviser warning US ships could be targeted if Washington attempts to “police” the strategic waterway.
Meanwhile, global energy markets remain volatile. Iran has suspended petrochemical exports “until further notice” due to war-related damage, while oil prices have surged amid disruptions to one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.
In Australia, a major fire at Viva Energy’s Geelong refinery, sparked by a suspected gas leak, has added to supply concerns.
Authorities confirmed no injuries, though Energy Minister Chris Bowen said the incident would impact production, noting: “This is not a positive development… we will carefully, methodically, manage it.”
The refinery, which supplies more than half of Victoria’s fuel, remains operationally contained but under close monitoring as the broader fuel crisis continues.
Source: Daily Telegraph.
