US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that the United States maintains complete control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical international shipping route, while expressing distrust of Iran.
During remarks to reporters, Donald Trump declared that the United States exercises exclusive authority over the Strait of Hormuz, stating that no other nation shares this control. He emphasised his skepticism toward Iran, claiming the country has repeatedly misled him regarding the strategic waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz serves as a vital conduit for approximately one-fifth of global oil supplies, alongside liquefied natural gas and fertilizer shipments. Control over transit rights through this passage has emerged as a central flashpoint in escalating military tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran. Prior to hostilities beginning on February 28, commercial shipping through the strait proceeded without significant disruption.
Since the conflict commenced, Iran has substantially impeded maritime traffic through attacks on vessels and threats of further action. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations authority, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has conducted multiple attacks, attempted strikes, and engagement activities in the region. The UKMTO reported that commercial shipping traffic remains substantially reduced, with Iranian actions demonstrating what officials characterise as attempts to exert control over key transit corridors and maintain pressure on passing ships.
These maritime disruptions have triggered considerable increases in oil and gas prices globally, contributing to inflationary pressures experienced worldwide.
