Who Controls the Strait of Hormuz Now? Iran and the US Make Conflicting Claims

The situation surrounding the strategically important Strait of Hormuz has become increasingly serious amid tensions between the United States and Iran. Both countries are currently making different claims regarding control over the vital waterway. Iran says the Strait is under its control and that ships cannot pass through without its permission. On the other hand, US President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States has complete control over the Strait of Hormuz and that the area is now under American control. Iran Strengthens Its Strategic Position Iran has adopted several strategies to maintain its influence over the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian Navy has strengthened its strategic position through the use of speedboats, naval mines, cruise and ballistic missiles, and drones. Iran has also attacked ships using the Omani passage. Since the beginning of the war, ships have been damaged in 54 incidents across the Strait of Hormuz, the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Three vessels have been destroyed. Since June 17, when Iran and the United States agreed on a safe passage, at least 15 ships have reportedly been attacked. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has said that the Strait of Hormuz will not be reopened until the United States fulfils its obligations under the agreement. Trump Posts Map Calling Hormuz ‘New U.S. Territory’ On August 18, US President Donald Trump posted a map on Truth Social that labelled the Strait of Hormuz as “New U.S. Territory.” However, this is a claim made by Trump and does not mean that the Strait of Hormuz has legally become US territory under international law. According to reports, Iran and Oman have territorial rights over the waters of the Strait. US Maintains Strong Naval Presence The United States has maintained a significant naval presence around the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. The US side has said it is working to keep maritime traffic through the Strait secure while enforcing a blockade on traffic linked to Iranian ports. The US Navy is also enforcing a blockade of Iran’s naval forces, preventing vessels from entering or leaving Iranian ports. Iran’s Control Has Reduced, But Threat Remains Iran has lost some control as ships are using the Omani route and are not paying tolls. However, Iran still has the capability to carry out attacks and remains a threat to shipping in the region. At the same time, the United States continues to maintain naval dominance in the area. However, oil flows remain significantly below pre-war levels amid the ongoing conflict and tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.