US says blockade of Iranian ports could be lifted under shipping deal

The United States would lift its blockade of Iranian ports once an agreement is announced guaranteeing unrestricted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a U.S. official told Reuters on condition of anonymity.

The official said any U.S. move to lift the blockade would depend on Iran fulfilling its commitments under the agreement.

"Once the deal is announced to ‌restore commercial shipping ⁠without impediments, the United States will lift the blockade of Iranian ports," the official told Reuters.