Trump claims U.S.-Iran deal is nearly finalized and the Strait of Hormuz will open; Iran refutes, stating it will remain under Iranian control. On the afternoon of the 23rd Eastern Time, U.S. President Trump posted on social media that the United States and Iran have nearly finalized an agreement. Trump stated that he had just spoken with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, Bahrain, and the Chief of Staff of the Pakistani Army to discuss Iran-related issues and matters pertaining to a “peaceful memorandum of understanding.” He added that a U.S.-Iran agreement is nearly complete and awaits final confirmation by both sides and relevant Islamic nations. He also spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. The final details of the agreement are currently being negotiated and will be announced soon. Trump further stated that, among other provisions of the agreement, the Strait of Hormuz would also be opened. However, Iran released a statement saying that Trump’s recent social media remarks regarding “the opening of the Strait of Hormuz” are “incomplete.” According to the latest exchanged text, even if an agreement is reached, the Strait of Hormuz will remain under Iranian “management.” Additionally, while Iran has agreed to allow shipping volumes through the Strait to return to pre-war levels, this does not mean the Strait will revert to a state of “free navigation” as before. Iran emphasized that management of the Strait, route planning, vessel transit times and methods, and permitting authority will remain fully under Iranian control. Therefore, Trump’s statements are incomplete and do not reflect the facts.