US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States now holds “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.
The narrow waterway, which links the Gulf to the open ocean, has been at the centre of escalating tensions since conflict involving Iran and US/Israel forces broke out earlier in the year.
In recent months, access through the strait has been repeatedly disrupted, with Iran previously imposing restrictions that significantly slowed global oil shipments. The move contributed to rising crude prices and forced several countries to introduce energy-saving measures.
Although a ceasefire agreement briefly appeared to ease tensions, with Iran announcing the reopening of the passage to commercial vessels, that position was reportedly reversed within 24 hours. Tehran later accused Washington of “piracy” and “sea robbery”, following continued US naval operations in the area.
US naval forces have maintained a heavy presence around the strait, amid ongoing uncertainty over maritime access and security.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed that no vessel could pass through the waterway without approval from the US Navy.
“We have total control over the Strait of Hormuz. No ship can enter or leave without the approval of the United States Navy,” he wrote, adding that the area would remain “sealed up tight” unless Iran reached an agreement.
In a separate statement, he also said he had authorised US naval forces to act against any vessels suspected of laying mines in the region. Naval mines are explosive devices placed in water to damage or destroy ships.
Iran has not yet formally responded to Trump’s latest remarks, and the status of the strait remains unclear amid conflicting claims from both sides.
