U.S. President Donald Trump has approved Iraqi Prime Minister Ali al-Zaidi's proposal for Baghdad to mediate between Washington and Tehran over the Strait of Hormuz crisis, according to exclusive Channel8 sources.

The initiative is aimed at addressing the economic and energy consequences of disruptions to one of the world's most critical shipping routes.

Trump Approves Iraqi Mediation Initiative

According to Channel8 sources, Prime Minister Ali Faleh al-Zaidi sought President Trump's approval during their recent meeting to launch a formal Iraqi mediation effort between the United States and Iran. Trump granted al-Zaidi the authority to pursue the initiative as part of efforts to help resolve the ongoing Strait of Hormuz crisis.

The sources said the mediation will focus on restoring stability to maritime trade and energy flows through the strategic waterway.

Iraq to Lead Economic Track of Negotiations

Channel8 sources said al-Zaidi told Trump that, while Pakistan has been engaged in the political and diplomatic aspects of discussions, Iraq intends to lead the economic track of mediation.

The Iraqi initiative will seek solutions to disruptions affecting commercial shipping and oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz, which have contributed to a wider global energy and trade crisis.

According to the sources, al-Zaidi is scheduled to visit Tehran on Thursday, July 23, for a series of high-level meetings. He and the accompanying Iraqi delegation are expected to return to Baghdad later the same day.

Iran Issues Apology Following Criticism

The sources also said senior Iranian officials moved to ease tensions after Ali Akbar Velayati publicly criticized al-Zaidi's visit to the United States.

As part of those efforts, Iranian Ambassador to Baghdad Mohammad Kazem AlSadiq met al-Zaidi on Monday to convey an official apology on behalf of the Iranian government, according to Channel8 sources.