Trump Affirms Control Over Strait of Hormuz Amid Tensions with Iran
On Tuesday, President Donald Trump reiterated his assertion that the U.S. has “total control” of the Strait of Hormuz. He cautioned that Iran could face severe consequences if it continues to struggle under mounting economic pressure or provokes American forces.
“At present, we completely control the Strait of Hormuz. They don’t—it’s under our control,” Trump told reporters upon his return from Ohio.
He added, “They might do something eventually, but right now, we are in a strong position.”
His comments followed U.S. military actions enforcing a blockade against Iran, where two Hellfire missiles were launched at a merchant vessel that ignored multiple warnings and aimed to head towards an Iranian port.
According to U.S. Central Command, a Navy MH-60 helicopter disabled the steering gear of a Panamanian-flagged ship, the M/V Bella Nova, preventing it from advancing toward Iran.
“Earlier today, CENTCOM forces successfully disabled the steering gear of the M/V Vela Nova, which attempted to breach the U.S. blockade while transiting the Gulf of Oman,” the command stated.
As of Tuesday, the U.S. military had redirected 55 vessels trying to bypass the blockade, disabled three noncompliant ships, and boarded two, CENTCOM confirmed.
“The vessel is no longer moving towards Iran in violation of the U.S. blockade, which remains firmly in place,” they emphasized, adding that U.S. forces in the area are “on high alert and ready to respond.”
Trump was also dismissive of any notion that he trusted Iran, stating that he is “the last person” who could have faith in the country. “They’ve lied to me repeatedly,” he remarked.
The president noted that the balance of power in the Middle East has dramatically shifted since U.S. and Israeli operations against Iran began in February. “We’re dealing with a nation that has dominated the region for the past 50 years, and that’s no longer the case,” he said.
In a pre-recorded interview aired Tuesday, Trump further explained his strategy regarding Iran. He mentioned that despite Iran’s severe economic troubles, they continue to present challenges and military escalation as possible responses to U.S. actions.
“I’m in negotiations,” he told the host, asserting that Iran is a poor negotiator, often backtracking on agreements. “They’re incredibly dishonest,” he added.
Trump suggested one approach would be to maintain the pressure already hurting Iran. “Just look at their situation—300 percent inflation, their currency is nearly worthless, and they can’t even pay their soldiers,” he noted, elaborating that this situation isn’t sustainable.
He further indicated that another option would be to escalate pressure significantly and that economic warfare remains an active part of the current strategy.
Regarding Iran’s finances, Trump said, “We have a firm grip on what they have. I’m effectively their banker now.” His remarks came amid contradictory signals about the potential for a deal concerning Hormuz.
Pakistan’s Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, claimed that the U.S. and Iran were nearing “some kind of agreement,” suggesting recent days had shown progress towards peace.
Asif stated, “The indicators suggest we are getting closer to some sort of understanding.” Meanwhile, senior Pakistani officials continued their mediation efforts with Iranian leaders.
However, Iran reiterated its stance that a deal with Oman wouldn’t automatically lead to reopening the strait. Newly appointed Iranian security officials insisted that Washington must first meet specific demands, which include an end to hostilities and the U.S. blockade.
In addition, Trump expressed that he believes Iran should be responsible for reparations due to the long history of conflict with the U.S., instructing officials to incorporate this demand into future negotiations.
Despite Iran’s reticence to declare the strait fully open, Energy Secretary Chris Wright reported on Tuesday that U.S. and allied efforts have effectively restored energy flows from the region.
Wright noted that daily crude oil transport through Hormuz has increased significantly since before the conflict, indicating a rise in regional oil movement.
Trump expressed confidence in the current combination of military and economic pressures favoring the U.S., regardless of Iran’s immediate acceptance of a deal.
“We fully control the Strait of Hormuz,” he asserted. “It’s us who manage it, no one else.” He added that the U.S. Navy is performing remarkably well.
