Iran official says US retreating on Hormuz amid tensions

An Iranian official said the United States has shifted its position on the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as a sign of retreat amid escalating tensions.

“First they said the Strait of Hormuz must be opened, then they said they would insure and escort ships, and now they say they are willing to manage it jointly with Iran,” Saeed Jalili said in a post on X.

"This is the very definition of a retreat: Iran’s power has brought the United States to the table of realities,” the Iranian Supreme Leader’s representative said. 

His remarks followed US President Donald Trump’s ultimatum that Iran reopen the waterway or face strikes on its power plants, a deadline that was later extended.

Trump has also suggested the possibility of joint management of the strait, as global markets react to disruptions in the vital shipping route.

First, they said: “The Strait of Hormuz must be opened.”
Then, they said: “I will insure and escort the ships.”
Now, they say: “I am willing to manage it jointly with Iran.”

This is the very definition of a retreat: Iran’s power has brought the United States to the table of… https://t.co/dI8UgFQY0W

— Saeed Jalili | سعید جلیلی (@DrSaeedJalili) March 23, 2026