Trump Reveals So-Called "Big Gift" from Iran, Claims Controlling Iranian Oil is an "Option"

On March 26, Xinhua News Agency reported from Washington that U.S. President Trump revealed what he called a "great gift" from Iran during a cabinet meeting: allowing 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. He also stated that controlling Iranian oil is "an option," but he would not discuss it at this time.

Trump said that the U.S. is having substantive discussions with "relevant key individuals." A few days ago, Iran proposed to allow 8 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. He later learned from news reports that 8 tankers flying the Pakistani flag had passed through the strait, and subsequently, 2 more tankers passed through, totaling 10 vessels.

He claimed that this was a "great gift" from Iran to demonstrate their sincerity in negotiations, stating that they "found the right people" for talks.

On the 24th, Trump stated at the White House that Iran is ready to "reach an agreement," and "they gave us a gift." At that time, Trump did not specify what this "gift" was, but mentioned it was "related to oil and gas."

Iranian President Raisi stated on social media on the 22nd that the Strait of Hormuz is open to everyone, but does not welcome those aggressors who violate Iranian territory. Iranian Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian reiterated on the 25th that the Strait of Hormuz is not completely closed, and countries not involved in the conflict with Iran can pass through with coordination from Iran.

According to a report by the British shipping media Lloyd's List on the 25th, the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is implementing a "control system" in the Strait of Hormuz, requiring passing vessels to submit complete documentation, obtain passage codes, and accept Iranian escort through pre-defined shipping lanes. From March 13 to 25, 26 vessels have passed through the strait under this system.

On February 28, the U.S. and Israel launched a large-scale military operation against Iran, and Iran retaliated against targets such as Israel and U.S. military bases in the Middle East. Global energy transport routes through the Strait of Hormuz have been severely disrupted, driving up international oil prices, disturbing financial markets, and exacerbating inflationary pressures in the U.S.