(AP) Trump says Iran gave the US a gift ‘worth a tremendous amount of money’.
As to what the gift is, here is a reasonable guess, with the attractiveness of reciprocity:
Iran will permit the transit through the Strait of Hormuz of oil equal in value or quantity to the 140 million barrels of Iranian oil stranded at sea now subject to sanctions relief. Against a background of endless negotiations, renewals will be contingent on U.S. strikes cessation, and unverifiable Iranian concessions.
Iran takes the initiative in relief of the markets, while the U.S. can only obstruct the markets. International opinion, including allies, swings sharply against the U.S. Continuation is contingent on cessation of hostilities. The result, vindicating the mullahs, is discussed in
What Are the Mullahs of Iran Thinking?
This action by Iran results in a return to a frozen conflict. This is the low risk option. It leaves Iran in a position to block the Strait at will.
The alternative U.S. option, preserving the original strategic objectives, involves seizure of several strategic Iranian islands. It potentially frees the Strait from Iranian threat, while exposing occupying troops to continuous, low intensity fires.
Which option would you take?