US President Donald Trump says the United States is in “very good” discussions with Iran and warns that Iran will be “hit very hard” if the Strait of Hormuz is not reopened “very soon.” Trump makes the comments in an interview with Fox News during a visit to California, stating that negotiations are ongoing and that he expects the strait to reopen shortly. Multiple outlets report that Trump also criticizes Iran’s position, alleging that Iran “lied” about negotiations and suggesting the threat is intended to push compliance. Channel NewsAsia and other coverage frame the issue as tied to Iran’s stated ambitions for the strait, including the ability to control passage and charge tolls, an approach some reports say Iran did not pursue before the conflict began on Feb. 28. One report cites Axios saying the US, Iran and Oman are nearing an interim deal to reopen the strait, with an anticipated announcement as early as the next day. Middle East Eye and others add that Trump presents the deal as one Iran is keen to sign. Overall, the reporting centers on US pressure and imminent efforts to restore access to the strategic shipping route.