Former President Donald Trump reiterated on Wednesday that the United States holds complete control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage for global energy shipments.
Trump declared on his Truth Social platform, "The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT!" He described the US naval presence there as a "WALL OF STEEL," asserting that Iran is powerless to challenge it.
The Strait of Hormuz is vital for the transit of oil and commodities from the Middle East. Although the US maintains its dominance, Iran claims significant influence over the waterway and has threatened to impose tolls in response to the conflict initiated by the US earlier this year.
Since February 28, US and Israeli forces have conducted extensive strikes against Iranian military targets, aiming to curb Tehran's nuclear ambitions and push for regime change. Iran has retaliated with missile attacks on US bases and allied countries, while also targeting shipping routes in the strait, disrupting global trade.
Despite mounting tensions, Trump has recently adopted a more measured stance, avoiding further escalation as he faces declining political support ahead of the November congressional elections. He indicated a strategy focusing on a blockade of Iranian ports, describing negotiations with Tehran as limited and cautious.
In an interview with Axios, Trump said, "We are only semi-negotiating with them. We are just watching Iran with its huge inflation and the fact they have no money."
