U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly denied an ABC News report suggesting that his administration was attempting to bring Iran back to the negotiating table. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he did not care whether Iran signed an agreement, describing any deal as having no value to the United States. He also asserted that the U.S. now has near-complete control over the Strait of Hormuz, while claiming that Iran's economy is collapsing.
The denial comes against a backdrop of long-standing tensions between Washington and Tehran. The Trump administration previously withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal and pursued a policy of maximum pressure through sanctions that have severely limited Iran's oil exports and weakened its currency. Although regional media have reported possible back-channel communications, no formal negotiations have been confirmed.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy chokepoints, with roughly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passing through its waters. Trump's claim of near-complete control reflects a continued U.S. naval presence in the region, but it also raises concerns about escalation risks. Analysts caution that any disruption to shipping in the strait could send shockwaves through global oil markets and increase inflationary pressures worldwide.
For global markets, the statement signals a hardening of U.S. policy and reduces the likelihood of near-term diplomatic breakthroughs. Investors and policymakers remain alert to any signs of escalation or de-escalation, since a miscalculation involving the strait could affect energy prices, risk sentiment, and broader economic stability.
