In a fresh twist to the ongoing US-Iran standoff, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, April 28, claimed that Iran has entered a “state of collapse” and is seeking urgent relief through the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Iran has just informed us that they are in a ‘State of Collapse.’ They want us to ‘Open the Hormuz Strait,’ as soon as possible, as they try to figure out their leadership situation.” He added, “Which I believe they will be able to do! Thank you for your attention to this matter!”
The remarks come at a time when the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil transit chokepoint, remains effectively paralysed due to the escalating US-Iran conflict, with ripple effects being felt across energy markets and global trade flows.
However, signals from both sides suggest that a clear diplomatic pathway remains elusive.
Over the weekend, Trump called off plans to dispatch US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan for ceasefire talks, indicating a preference for remote negotiations. “Talks can happen over the phone,” he said, ruling out immediate in-person engagement.
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On the other hand, Iran has downplayed the possibility of imminent dialogue. Esmaeil Baqaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, said no meetings are currently planned between Tehran and Washington, underscoring the lack of alignment on formal negotiations.
That said, there are early signs of a possible compromise. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump and his national security team have reviewed Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz — but only if the war ends and the US lifts its blockade.
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Even as diplomatic backchannels remain active, markets are reacting sharply to the uncertainty. Crude oil prices surged again on Tuesday, with West Texas Intermediate futures jumping 3% to cross $99 per barrel, while Brent crude gained 2% to trade above $110.
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(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)
