PANews reported on April 8 that US President Donald Trump, in an interview with ABC News Wednesday morning, stated that the US might seek a joint project with Iran to protect the Strait of Hormuz following Tuesday's announcement of a two-week ceasefire. When asked if he would allow Tehran to charge shipping fees through this strategic waterway, Trump said, "We're considering doing it as a joint venture. It's a way to protect the Strait—and a way to prevent many other countries from getting involved." Trump added, "It's a very good thing." Trump also stated that he would not allow Iran to retain any uranium enrichment capabilities, despite Tehran's repeated claims that it would not relinquish its freedom to do so. Trump indicated that US troops in the region would not withdraw, suggesting they would remain to implement any future agreements. Trump expects peace talks to begin on Friday and will proceed rapidly.