U.S. President Donald Trump claimed the Strait of Hormuz is permanently open.
"China is very happy that I am permanently opening the Strait of Hormuz," Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social on Thursday.
"I am doing it for them, and also for the world," he added. "This will not happen again."
The remarks appear to emphasize that third-country vessels, which had been restricted by Iran's control of the strait, are now transiting again after a blockade on ships traveling to and from Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz took effect at 10 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday.
"China has agreed not to send weapons to Iran," Trump said. "When I arrive there in a few weeks, President Xi Jinping will give me a big hug."
"We are working together wisely and very well. Isn't this better than fighting?" he continued. "But remember, if necessary, we fight very well, and better than anyone."
The statement appears to highlight cooperation with Xi while suggesting his visit to China, rescheduled for mid-May, will proceed as planned.
In an interview with Britain's Sky News aired the same day, Trump revealed he had exchanged letters with Xi and said China promised not to provide weapons to Iran.
