**As Strait of Hormuz Transit Drops, Trump Asserts US Control**
*Published on August 12, 2026*
In a recent statement, U.S. President Donald Trump reaffirmed his claims of American dominance over the Strait of Hormuz, despite a significant decline in maritime traffic through this crucial waterway. The Strait of Hormuz, which serves as a vital passage for global oil shipments, has seen transit levels plummet to a one-week low amid ongoing tensions stemming from the U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran.
Trump took to Truth Social on Wednesday to declare, “The U.S.A. has total control over the Strait of Hormuz. I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT!” This assertion follows a similar statement made to reporters the day prior. His remarks come as diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving the conflict and restoring full access to the strait have stalled.
The President also highlighted the ongoing U.S. blockade of Iranian ports, referring to it as “A WALL OF STEEL,” and asserted that Iran is unable to counter this blockade effectively. “Iran is all talk and no action, the Bully of the Middle East No Longer,” he added, concluding with the phrase, “Praise be to Allah!”
Despite Trump's confident assertions, Iran has been actively pursuing its own agenda regarding the strait. The Iranian government has engaged in discussions with Oman about future management of the waterway, indicating a desire to assert its influence. However, Iran has made it clear that it will not permit full maritime traffic in the strait until the U.S. naval blockade is lifted, sanctions are removed, and its frozen assets are released.
Current conditions in the Strait of Hormuz have created significant challenges for shipping. Although vessels can still navigate the strait, they face increased risks and obstacles, leading to a notable decrease in the number of ships transiting the area. According to data from trade analytics platform Kpler, only eight ships passed through the strait on Tuesday, a stark contrast to the pre-war average of 130 to 140 ships. This figure also represents a decline from the previous ten-day average of approximately 12 vessels.
The backdrop to these developments is the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, which escalated following the U.S. and Israel's military actions that began on February 28. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at de-escalating tensions was signed in June but collapsed by mid-July, leading to a resurgence of hostilities.
Recent military actions have included a U.S. Navy helicopter striking a Panama-flagged cargo ship, highlighting the volatility of the situation. Additionally, the Yemen-based Houthi movement has intensified its involvement in the conflict, launching attacks on vessels in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. A recent Houthi attack on an Egyptian-owned ship resulted in the deaths of six individuals, marking a significant escalation in maritime violence.
As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful of developments in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil trade and a focal point of geopolitical tensions in the region. The future of maritime transit through this vital waterway hinges on the outcome of ongoing diplomatic efforts and the broader conflict dynamics involving the U.S., Iran, and their respective allies.