Iran lied about negotiations with US, Strait of Hormuz to open 'very soon', Trump says

What Happened

US President Donald Trump stated in an interview on 2 April 2025 that Iran had privately requested negotiations to avert what he described as a planned ‘tremendous attack, the biggest since World War II’. Trump accused Iranian officials of publicly denying contacts despite holding all-day talks on Tuesday, claiming they lie about the discussions and the subject matter, which he indicated concerned Iran’s nuclear programme. He reiterated that Tehran would not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon, said the Strait of Hormuz would reopen ‘very soon’, and warned that if Iran backs out of talks, ‘they’re going to get hit really hard’. Iranian state media, citing an informed source, responded that an agreement with Oman on the Strait of Hormuz would be delayed as long as US threats continue. Trump also criticised former president Barack Obama’s nuclear deal and asserted that military pressure forced Iran to negotiate.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The exchange escalates US–Iran tensions over the nuclear file and maritime security, with the Strait of Hormuz a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. Trump’s assertion of high-level talks and military ultimatums signals a volatile mix of diplomacy and coercion, raising the stakes for miscalculation or conflict if negotiations fail or are exposed as disingenuous.

Watch For

Official confirmation or denial of direct US–Iran talks by either government; any movement on the Oman-mediated Strait of Hormuz agreement; IAEA reports on Iranian enrichment levels; and concrete US force posture changes in the region that could indicate military planning.