Iran disputes U.S. claims, says it maintains full control of Strait of Hormuz

Iran has asserted its complete control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, directly challenging recent declarations by U.S. President Donald Trump that America holds "total control" over the vital waterway. Hossein Taeb, the newly appointed chief of Iran's Basij paramilitary force, stated that the strait is "under the management and control of the Islamic Republic."

Taeb suggested that Washington's claims were an attempt to undermine Iran's regional standing, but asserted that the U.S. had been defeated in its efforts. He reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains firmly under Iranian management and control, despite U.S. statements about the weakness of Iranian forces.

The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial chokepoint for international energy markets, with approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it before previous conflicts. Tehran had previously blocked transit following U.S. and Israeli attacks. The U.S. responded with naval blockades against Iranian shipping and ports, vowing to protect freedom of navigation.

While a provisional ceasefire was reached in June, leading to hopes of restoring navigation freedom, the understanding collapsed weeks later. Iran resumed limited attacks on vessels it deemed in violation of the agreement, prompting further U.S. strikes. Iran insists that any reopening of the strait is contingent on Washington fulfilling its commitments under the provisional agreement, stating that the U.S. cannot unilaterally achieve this.