Trump will make a statement on the Iran issue, as the Strait of Hormuz returns to the energy spotlight

Gate News: On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump said the U.S. could end its war with Iran within two to three weeks, but the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain. Trump said the goal is to ensure Iran no longer has nuclear weapons, and regime change is not part of the plan, but tensions in the oil market show that a sea-lane blockade has a greater impact on global energy supplies.

Brent crude rose by about 55% in March, marking the largest monthly gain since 1988. The average U.S. gasoline price reached $4.02 per gallon, diesel prices topped $5, and transportation and consumption costs were pushed higher. Trump shifted responsibility for restarting the strait to other countries. The UAE proposed dispatching naval forces, while Bahrain sought U.N. Security Council authorization to establish an independent maritime task force, but Iran remains skeptical.

The White House confirmed that Trump will deliver a nationwide address on the Iran issue on Wednesday evening, just days ahead of the final deadline he set for the Strait of Hormuz to reopen on April 6. The U.S. hinted that it may take military action, including intercepting tankers carrying Iranian crude oil, if Tehran does not comply. However, the “George H. W. Bush” carrier strike group departed Norfolk port on Tuesday, sending mixed signals that make it difficult for the market to judge which way events will go.

Bitcoin is hovering around $67,900, up 2.2% this month, indicating that crypto assets still retain some resilience to geopolitical volatility. But energy costs remain an important factor influencing the market. Only if the Strait of Hormuz can restore free passage will fluctuations in oil prices and related assets likely ease. The speech and progress on opening the strait will become the focus of attention for global investors and traders.