On August 1, 2026, President Trump stated the U.S. was prepared to act against Iran and claimed Tehran and other countries had requested a pause in strikes pending a deal that would open the Strait of Hormuz and end Iran's nuclear program. Iran's Mehr news agency denied the claim the following day, labeling it a lie and stating forces were on alert, while Fars news agency said the strait would remain closed amid U.S. hostility. Iran has enforced permit and fee requirements on Hormuz traffic since the start of the conflict.