U.S. President Donald Trump says American forces now have “very strong control” over the Strait of Hormuz following heavy strikes on Iranian military targets near the strategic waterway.
Trump said the latest attacks destroyed Iranian radar, missile and mine-laying capabilities that Tehran was attempting to rebuild around the strait.
He also claimed U.S. forces have cleared mines from shipping routes and are escorting commercial vessels carrying millions of barrels of oil through the vital passage. Reports say U.S. forces recently escorted dozens of commercial vessels through the strait.
The claims come as Washington and Tehran remain locked in a renewed military confrontation, with Iran retaliating against U.S. positions across the region after the American strikes.
The Strait of Hormuz has become a central flashpoint in the conflict because it is one of the world’s most important routes for oil and gas shipments.
However, shipping data indicates that commercial traffic remains significantly below normal levels, raising questions about the extent of control and the security of the waterway.
Trump has warned that Washington is prepared to launch further strikes if Iran retaliates, increasing fears of another cycle of military escalation.
Iran, meanwhile, continues to challenge U.S. efforts to secure the waterway, while tensions over mines and attacks on shipping remain a major obstacle.
With the Strait of Hormuz still under severe pressure, the confrontation could have wider consequences for regional stability, international shipping and global energy markets.
