'We will keep it': Trump says US has total control over Hormuz, Iran has 'no money'

Former US president Donald Trump has declared that the United States holds "total control" over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, stating his intention to maintain its presence over the vital shipping route. In a post on Truth Social, Trump claimed the US naval blockade of Iranian ports had created a "WALL OF STEEL," asserting that Iran is unable to challenge American forces. "The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT!" Trump wrote.

Trump dismissed Iran's military capabilities, describing the nation as "shot" and emphasizing its current economic struggles. "They have No Money - Their country is ‘shot.’ All they have is FAKE NEWS and 300% INFLATION, and getting worse!" he added, before concluding that Iran is only "all talk and no action, the Bully of the Middle East No Longer."

The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime chokepoint carrying a significant share of global oil supplies, has faced severe disruption since tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States escalated. The US has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian ports while maintaining a large military presence in the Gulf. Iran, in turn, has demanded the end of the blockade, sanctions relief, and compensation for damages sustained during the conflict.

Despite the ongoing confrontation, indirect diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran have persisted, with a focus on averting a broader regional conflict and restoring maritime traffic. The standoff has raised concerns for global shipping and energy markets, as the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed to normal traffic, prompting exploration of alternative routes such as the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait.

The tension in the region further heightened this week after Iran-backed Houthi rebels attacked a ship off Yemen, resulting in the death of six people, including three Pakistani nationals. The attack has reignited fears that violence could spread to other strategic shipping routes.