US President Donald Trump has said his patience with Iran is wearing thin as tensions over the Strait of Hormuz continue to disrupt global energy markets and regional stability. Speaking aboard Air Force One after concluding talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, Trump indicated that Tehran must reopen the crucial shipping route but stressed he was not seeking Chinese intervention as a favour.
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Trump said Xi agreed that Iran should ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open, though Beijing has not publicly confirmed any direct role in pressuring Tehran. China’s foreign ministry instead reiterated its opposition to the ongoing conflict, calling it unnecessary and urging all sides to avoid further escalation.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, has faced major disruption since Iran restricted most shipping following US-Israeli military strikes earlier this year. Tehran has linked reopening the passage to an end to Washington’s blockade measures.
Trump warned Iran to reach an agreement soon, repeating US concerns over Tehran’s nuclear programme. He said Washington’s goal remained preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons while restoring stability to international shipping routes.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Tehran had received indirect messages from Washington suggesting interest in continuing negotiations. He expressed hope that diplomacy could eventually secure the waterway and normalise traffic.
Despite these signals, trust remains low between both sides after recent military exchanges and stalled negotiations. Iran has maintained that its nuclear programme is peaceful and has refused to halt research activities or surrender enriched uranium stockpiles.
The uncertainty has rattled markets, with oil prices climbing about three percent to nearly $109 per barrel amid concerns over prolonged supply disruptions. Higher energy costs have also increased expectations that the US Federal Reserve may tighten monetary policy to control inflationary pressure.
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China, the largest buyer of Iranian oil, remains a key stakeholder in the crisis, but analysts believe Beijing is unlikely to significantly pressure Tehran, viewing Iran as an important strategic partner against US influence in the region.