Trump declares control over the Strait of Hormuz – Tehran disagrees

The UKMTO, an authority housed within the British military responsible for the security of commercial shipping, had reported on the platform X in the evening that the attacks and harassment by the Iranian Revolutionary Guards in the strait were continuing. According to the report, the incidents were "proof that Iran wants to maintain its presence along important transit routes and keep up the pressure on passing ships."

Background: Why the waterway is so important

The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is considered one of the most important straits in the world: roughly one-fifth of global crude oil trade passes through the passage, which is only a few kilometers wide.

Spokespersons in Iranian state media rejected Trump's account. They stressed that the Islamic Republic had not relinquished control over the maritime area. Former Revolutionary Guards commander Mohsen Rezaei had also spoken recently, emphasizing the strength of Iran's naval forces.

From the US, there has so far been no official confirmation of concrete military operations that could prove complete control over the strait. The Pentagon initially declined to comment on Trump's statement.

Contradictory assessments from Washington and London

Observers see the contradiction between the statements from Washington and the UKMTO reports as a sign that the situation remains tense. The UKMTO routinely calls on ships to exercise heightened caution.

Pricing on international energy markets reacts sensitively to news from the region. Past incidents in the strait had at times driven up oil and gas prices, underscoring the strategic importance of the waterway.

Trump had repeatedly threatened a tougher approach against Iran in recent weeks, also pointing to military options. At the same time, he signaled readiness to negotiate on the issue of Iran's nuclear program.

Reactions and impact on trade

The conflict between Washington and Tehran has a long history. Alongside the dispute over the nuclear program, Iranian proxies in the Middle East, sanctions, and mutual threats are at the center.

International shipowners are following the developments closely. Some shipping companies had adjusted their routes in recent months or taken additional security precautions in order to be able to respond to incidents in the strait.