**Title: Iran Criticizes Trump’s Claims Over Strait of Hormuz**
Iranian officials have responded sharply to U.S. President Donald Trump's recent assertions regarding the Strait of Hormuz, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi characterizing Trump's claims as indicative of “schizophrenia” and “delusions.” This statement follows Trump's sharing of an image on social media that labeled the Strait of Hormuz as a “NEW” U.S. territory alongside regions such as Puerto Rico and Guam.
In a post on X, Gharibabadi elaborated on his criticism, stating that “schizophrenia is a complex and acute psychotic disorder” characterized by disturbances in thinking and a distorted perception of reality. He noted that symptoms often include hallucinations and delusions, suggesting that individuals exhibiting such symptoms require constant supervision and treatment.
This is not the first instance where Trump has asserted U.S. control over the strategic waterway. Earlier in the month, he claimed that the U.S. “WILL KEEP IT,” referring to the American blockade in the region as “A WALL OF STEEL.” Additionally, Trump downplayed Iran's military capabilities, stating that the country has no significant navy or air force, and concluded his remarks with the phrase, “Praise be to Allah!”
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime passage for global oil shipments, has been a focal point of tension between the U.S. and Iran. Iranian officials, including security chief Mohsen Rezaei, have consistently maintained that Iran exercises full control over the strait. Rezaei criticized the U.S. claims, suggesting that the distance between Washington and the Strait of Hormuz—approximately 7,000 miles—underscores the disconnect between U.S. assertions and reality. He remarked, “Welcome to the post-American order in the Persian Gulf,” highlighting a perceived shift in regional dynamics.
Despite the ongoing tensions and conflicting narratives, maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has significantly decreased since the onset of hostilities in late February, with current daily traffic reported in the low double digits, a stark contrast to the typical flow of around 130 ships per day prior to the conflict.
In response to the escalating situation, the U.S. has reportedly reconsidered its military strategy regarding Iran, stepping back from potential strikes amid reports of shortages in critical military supplies, including long-range guided weapons and air-defense interceptors. President Trump has denied these claims of shortages.
The U.S. has since pivoted towards what it describes as an “economic onslaught” against Iran, aiming to isolate the country financially. Despite these pressures, Iranian officials remain resolute. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi commented, “We have seen this movie before. Same bull. Different bullies,” indicating Iran's defiance in the face of U.S. sanctions and military posturing.
As tensions continue to simmer, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical point of contention between the two nations, with implications for regional stability and global oil markets.