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Iran Reopens Hormuz Strait; Oil Plunges 9% as Trump Maintains Blockade

April 18, 2026

Summary

Iran announced the Strait of Hormuz is fully open to commercial vessels, causing oil prices to drop by 9% and global markets to rally, despite ongoing confusion and U.S. officials maintaining a blockade.

How coverage differs

Left outlets report Iran's declaration of an open Hormuz and oil drop despite Trump's blockade, while right outlets credit Trump's firm stance for the reopening, criticizing other leaders' belated efforts.

  • Left: US blockade undermines Iran's Strait reopening, risks persist Left-leaning outlets report Iran's declaration that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open for commercial vessels, noting the immediate 9% drop in oil prices and global market rally. They highlight President Trump's assertion that the U.S. blockade on Iranian ships and ports will remain in force, creating a complex situation.
  • Center: Confusion reigns as Iran declares Strait open, U.S. maintains blockade Center outlets report the conflicting statements from Iran, which declared the Strait of Hormuz open, and President Trump, who stated the U.S. blockade remains active. They emphasize the persistent confusion among commercial vessels and the shipping industry regarding the actual operational status of the vital waterway.
  • Right: Trump's decisive action opens Hormuz, allies' efforts mocked Right-leaning outlets credit President Trump's firm stance for the Strait of Hormuz's effective reopening, highlighting the passage of the first ships through the crucial waterway. They criticize other international leaders like Macron and Starmer for announcing missions after Trump's actions, framing their efforts as belated and ineffective.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Strait of Hormuz Is Open During Cease-Fire in Lebanon, U.S. and Iran Say
  • Iran reopens Strait of Hormuz, but Trump says blockade on Iranian ships and ports will stay in force - AP News

Center

  • Video shows ships turning away from the Strait of Hormuz as confusion persists over whether sea lane is really open
  • Iran declares Strait of Hormuz open to shipping but Trump says U.S. blockade still active
  • Confusion over whether the Strait of Hormuz is open

Right

  • First ships pass through the Strait of Hormuz after Trump mocked Nato's 'useless' offer to help: RECAP

Far right

  • Leading From The Rear: Macron and Starmer Announce Hormuz Mission After Trump Opens It

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