Trump Thanks Iran but Declares US Naval Blockade Remains 'In Full Force'

President Trump thanked Tehran for opening the Strait of Hormuz but issued a statement declaring the US naval blockade of Iranian ports would remain fully in effect. Trump posted: 'THE NAVAL BLOCKADE WILL REMAIN IN FULL FORCE AND EFFECT AS IT PERTAINS TO IRAN, ONLY, UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.' Pentagon data showed the blockade had deterred at least 13 ships from transiting. Trump expressed optimism about reaching a deal with Iran, stating negotiations were going 'very well' with no 'sticking points.'