Trump: US has 'mined the entire' Strait of Hormuz

President Donald Trump asserted that the United States has "100 percent" control over the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump stated that while Iran sometimes drops mines, the U.S. has been responsible for clearing them.

"It's a little complicated, because they [Iran] sometimes drop a mine, and we find the mines. You know, we have mined the entire strait," Trump said, implying a proactive U.S. role in managing the waterway's safety.

Discussions regarding the full opening of the strait have been ongoing between warring parties. Iranian media reports indicate that Iran's National Security Council is linking the strait's opening to concessions from the U.S. and its allies. Furthermore, the Iranian Foreign Ministry suggests Iran plans to impose fees on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

“

We have mined the entire strait.

U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance recently stated that Iran had placed a significant number of mines in the strait at the beginning of the conflict. Vance indicated that Washington is developing mechanisms to ensure safe navigation, including demining operations and guarantees from Iran against attacking commercial ships.

Before the conflict, which began in late February with U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran, shipping through the strait was largely uninterrupted. Approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply, as well as liquefied natural gas and fertilizer, passes through this vital route. Iran's actions, including attacks on ships and threats to commercial navigation, have significantly increased global oil and gas prices. The U.S. aims to restore oil and gas flows through the Strait of Hormuz to pre-war levels, according to Vance.

“

Washington is preparing a mechanism that would ensure safe shipping in the region, including demining and Iran's commitment not to attack commercial vessels.