US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States has “complete control” over the Strait of Hormuz, while describing ongoing US sanctions against Iran as effective. Speaking to reporters, Trump also said he supported the idea of declaring the strategic waterway US territory, although such a move would have major international legal and geopolitical implications.
Trump said shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remained smooth and linked this to falling global oil prices. He also claimed that Iran was facing severe economic difficulties, including very high inflation, and said the country’s military had acknowledged defeat. Trump warned, however, that Iran could still pose a threat to vessels by laying mines in the strategic waterway.
The comments come as a 60-day US-Iran agreement approaches its expiry. Trump indicated that he does not intend to extend the arrangement, which was aimed at facilitating talks, reducing tensions and addressing disputes related to the Strait of Hormuz. His remarks add further uncertainty to the future of the strategically important oil-shipping route.
