Donald Trump and senior US officials expect to reach an agreement with Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz by today or tomorrow, while Tehran says no negotiations have taken place.
On Tuesday, 4 Aug 2026 GMT+7, several senior US officials expressed hope that the US might reach an agreement with Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz "today or tomorrow," just hours after reports emerged of another cargo ship being attacked while passing through the strait.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told CNBC, "There is a chance we may reach an agreement" within the next few hours, one day after President Donald Trump said the strait might reopen on Tuesday.
On Monday, Trump said he expected to know by Tuesday how negotiations were progressing "one way or another," but firmly stated, "It's not very complicated." Regarding reopening the Strait of Hormuz, "it could happen tomorrow (Tuesday)," while nuclear disarmament by Iran "might take a bit longer."
US officials’ remarks came as Iranian authorities denied any new negotiations with the US, insisting they only discussed shipping routes with Oman to ensure cargo ships can safely pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Qatar, acting as a mediator, revealed on Tuesday that diplomatic efforts continue but there are no plans for direct talks between Iran and the US.
At the same time, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported on Tuesday morning that a cargo ship was attacked with an "unidentified explosive device" in the Strait of Hormuz off Oman's coast. UKMTO did not disclose the ship’s name or details of any damage or injuries.
Iran continues to strictly enforce its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, requiring ships to coordinate their passage with Iranian authorities and to follow routes close to Iran’s coastline. This has led many vessels to choose the southern route near Oman, on the opposite side of the strait.
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Source:cna