Furious World Leaders Cut Out Trump from Deals in War!!!

World leaders are increasingly bypassing Donald Trump and the US to negotiate directly with Iran over access to the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively controlled since the war began. The podcast highlights recent ship transits, diplomatic maneuvers, and criticisms of US policy, positioning Iran as a more legitimate player while isolating the US.

Recent Ship Transits Through the Strait

Iran has established a toll system in the Strait of Hormuz, charging about $1 to $3 per barrel of oil, and is selectively allowing passages. A French-owned container ship became the first known Western European-linked vessel to exit the strait since the war disrupted it, per Bloomberg. Japan followed with a liquefied natural gas tanker owned by Mitsui OSK Lines, also a first. These transits suggest bilateral deals: France likely coordinated quietly, while Japan may have used Russia, Pakistan, or direct talks with Iran's President Pezeshkian. Iran is methodical, letting just enough through to sustain negotiations, especially as Japan faces LNG shortages. The Philippines reported a "productive call" with Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi, reaching a "positive understanding" on seafarer safety and energy security, framed in a "warm spirit of cooperation."