1. Suspension of 50% Tariffs on Canada
—Trump stated that, given the agreement reached between the US and Canada, the 50% tariffs on Canada, originally scheduled to take effect tomorrow (Wednesday) morning, have been suspended for three days! The relevant documents are still pending finalization.
2. Posting Image to Claim Sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz—Trump posted an image on social media claiming the Strait of Hormuz is “new US territory.” Iranian media called Trump’s action “delusional.”
3. Speaks with UAE President—The President of the UAE spoke with US President Trump to discuss regional affairs. Trump discussed cooperation between the UAE and the US and ways to further strengthen relations to support common interests.
4. Instructs Team Not to Negotiate Before Iran is Ready to Sign Agreement
—US officials stated that Trump has instructed his team not to negotiate with Iran until Iran is ready to sign an agreement. The official stated that positive discussions have taken place with Iran, but Trump decided to wait.
5. Emphasizes Naval Blockade Remains Fully Effective—Trump: There are no negotiations or dialogues underway or arranged with Iran. The naval blockade remains fully effective. The Strait of Hormuz is open and operating normally. All mines have been removed or detonated.
6. At Trump's Request, South Korea-US Joint Military Exercises End Early
—According to South Korean sources, following Trump's request for a significant reduction in the scale of the South Korea-US joint military exercises, the South Korean and US military held an emergency meeting on the 18th and decided to drastically shorten the schedule of the ongoing "Ulchi Freedom Shield" joint military exercises. The exercises, originally scheduled to continue until the 27th, will end this week.
