Key facts
- U.S. President Donald Trump declared the United States has "total" control over the Strait of Hormuz.
- Trump stated the U.S. will "keep" control of the waterway.
- He described the U.S. naval presence as a "WALL OF STEEL" that Iran cannot counter.
- Trump criticized Iran's military strength, economy, and leadership.
- Iran has reportedly linked the reopening of the strait to U.S. concessions, including war reparations and lifting a naval blockade.
U.S. President Donald Trump asserted on Wednesday that the United States possesses "total" control over the Strait of Hormuz and intends to maintain it. His remarks come amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the waterway, a critical route for global energy and commodity shipments, which Iran had effectively closed during a recent Middle East war.
Trump posted on social media that the U.S. naval blockade, which he termed a "WALL OF STEEL," is unchallengeable by Iran. He further criticized Iran's military capabilities, economic situation, and leadership, stating that the country is "all talk and no action."