President Donald Trump declares total control over the Strait of Hormuz as Iran's influence over the waterway diminishes.
President Donald Trump declared on Monday that the United States has total control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway where Iran has been attempting to assert dominance. While Iran has vehemently opposed the UN-authorized Omani route, over 80% of vessel transits have recently favored this path, protected by U.S. naval forces. This shift indicates that Iran has partially lost control of the strait, as it has been unable to effectively charge tolls or deter ships from the Omani route. Energy Secretary Chris Wright reported that oil transits through the strait and rerouted around it totaled approximately 15 million barrels per day, nearing pre-war levels. Despite Iran's continued attacks, the administration announced that the U.S. is maintaining a strong military presence to ensure navigation. President Donald Trump also expressed a desire to maintain a steady pace in negotiations, noting that he is in no hurry to conclude the war. He further warned the Sultanate of Oman that the U.S. would take military action if the country interferes with U.S. objectives in the strait.
Sources
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Iran has lost significant control of the Strait of Hormuz
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