POLITICS

Iran Rejects Trump’s Hormuz Blockade Claims as War Stalls Global Shipping

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Iran's military on August 13, 2026, rejected claims by U.S. President Donald Trump that American naval forces hold total control over the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking on Iranian state television, Khatam-al Anbiya central military command spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari termed U.S. statements regarding normal maritime traffic through the waterway as lies and fabrications. Zolfaghari emphasized that no commercial vessel or oil tanker can safely navigate the maritime corridor without direct permission and supervision from Iranian armed forces. The Iranian rejection follows statements published by President Trump on Truth Social asserting that the United States has achieved total control over the strategic passage using a naval blockade described as a wall of steel. The standoff over the Strait of Hormuz—a vital maritime bottleneck carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption—continues to stall global shipping and disrupt international energy markets amid ongoing military conflict in the region.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

On February 28, 2026 regional war began following U.S.-Israel strikes.
On July 07, 2026 earlier diplomatic truce unraveled following president's statement.
On July 30, 2026 regional defense discussions occurred among Middle Eastern nations.
On August 12, 2026 President Trump claimed total U.S. Hormuz control.
On August 13, 2026 (06:33 AM) Basij leader declared Iranian control over Hormuz.
On August 13, 2026 (07:07 AM) Iranian Foreign Minister cited U.S. intelligence failure.
On August 13, 2026 (02:14 PM) Iranian military released video official statement rejecting claims.
On August 13, 2026 (07:34 PM) final freshness check confirmed no new developments.
On August 14, 2026 energy markets expect continued severe oil price volatility.
On September 01, 2026 international mediators will attempt renewed safe-passage diplomatic talks.

News Intelligence

Immediate U.S. impact: Elevated domestic gas prices and energy market volatility nationwide.
Possible long-term U.S. impact: Prolonged military deployment and persistent global supply chain disruptions.
Most affected groups: U.S. consumers, shipping industry, energy investors, and military personnel.
What readers should prioritize: Verify military claims against independent maritime tracking and official notices.