Trump says Strait of Hormuz is open permanently and China is 'very happy'

"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.

According to the American president, China agreed not to supply weapons to Iran.

"President Xi (Jinping - ed.) will give me a big, fat, hug when I get there in a few weeks. 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," he added.

US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz

The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz by the United States was introduced on Monday, April 13, by order of President Donald Trump after the collapse of peace talks between Washington and Tehran.

Trump warned that violators approaching the blockade would be eliminated. The American president also boasted that Iran's navy is "lying at the bottom of the sea," and that 158 of Tehran's ships were destroyed.

As is known, in addition to vessels heading to or from Iran, the United States also blocks ships that pay Tehran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

At the same time, US allies refused to help Trump enforce the blockade of the strait.

However, the Chinese tanker Rich Starry, which is under US sanctions, passed through the Strait of Hormuz on April 14. The tanker crossed the waterway despite the blockade imposed by US military forces.

The blockade of ships in the Strait of Hormuz by the United States carries risks. US military ships in the narrow strait could become targets for missiles and drones with very little reaction time.

In addition, prolonging the conflict increases domestic pressure on Trump — gasoline prices may remain high, which is a political problem for Republicans ahead of the midterm elections.