Trump Says 20 Pakistan-Flagged Oil Tankers Passed Through the Strait of Hormuz

Xinhua reported on March 30 that Trump said Iran allowed 20 Pakistan-flagged oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, while Iranian parliament speaker Qalibaf denied any talks with the U.S. on March 23.

Summary

Xinhua reported on March 30, citing remarks to the Financial Times, that Trump said Iran allowed 20 Pakistan-flagged oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The existing report also stated that Trump had said Iran previously allowed 10 tankers and suggested a deal could be reached soon. In a related development, Iranian parliament speaker Qalibaf denied on March 23 that there were any talks with the U.S., creating a direct discrepancy with the earlier reference to indirect talks progressing.

Terms & Concepts
  • Strait of Hormuz: A strategically important shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf to global sea lanes and carrying a significant share of the world’s oil trade.