POLITICS

Trump Declares Total U.S. Control Over Strait of Hormuz

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President Donald Trump declared Wednesday that the United States has "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz and intends to "keep it," as shipping traffic through the vital waterway remains severely disrupted amid stalled negotiations with Iran . In a Truth Social post, Trump described the U.S. naval blockade as a "'WALL OF STEEL'" and asserted Iran lacks the military and economic capacity to challenge American forces, citing 300% inflation and unpaid soldiers . Trump's declaration follows his Monday claim that the U.S. Navy has mine-swept the "entire" strait, which he said is open for all except Iran . However, shipping data shows traffic has plummeted to just eight vessels on Tuesday, down from a pre-war average of 130 to 140 ships . Iran has linked the strait's full reopening to U.S. concessions, including lifting the naval blockade, ending sanctions, and paying war reparations . ---

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

On February 28, 2026, US-Israeli conflict with Iran caused oil prices to surge over 40% .
· On July 8, 2026, Trump took a military plane due to an Iranian assassination threat .
· On August 3, 2026, House passed funding bill for Homeland Security set to expire on August 13 .
· On August 10, 2026, Democratic leader Jeffries rejected White House immigration proposals .
Present Events:
· On August 11, 2026, US-Iran talks over the Strait of Hormuz reached a dead end .
· On August 11, 2026, only eight vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz .
· On August 12, 2026, Senate Democrats refused to cooperate on a stopgap spending bill .
· On August 12, 2026, Trump said the US had mine-swept the entire strait .
· On August 13, 2026, Trump declared the US has "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz .
· On August 13, 2026, the Department of Homeland Security is set to shut down .
Future Expectations:
· The Strait of Hormuz may remain closed until Washington meets Iranian demands .
· Iran's economic crisis could intensify if the US maintains the naval blockade .
· Republicans and Democrats may negotiate a new funding bill for Homeland Security .
· Global energy prices could rise further if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked .

News Intelligence

Immediate US Impact: Naval blockade escalates tensions and disrupts global energy markets.
· Long-term US Impact: Prolonged military presence could reshape Middle East strategic balance.
· Affected Groups: Global energy markets, US military, Iran, and international shipping.
· Reader Priority: Monitor diplomatic developments and potential military escalation.