‘Wall of Steel’ at Hormuz: Trump Warns Iran, Claims US Has ‘Total Control’

Trump Repeats That He Has Control Over Hormuz

The US has “total control” over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, President Donald Trump has said, intensifying his rhetoric toward Iran amid ongoing tensions over the waterway. On August 12, Trump posted on Truth Social that the US naval blockade was being described as a “wall of steel” and insisted that Iran would not dare challenge it.

Steep Decline in Strait Shipping

Trump's remarks come as commercial traffic thru the Strait of Hormuz continues to be severely disrupted. Only eight vessels crossed the strait on Tuesday, reports said, compared with about 130-140 vessels a day before the war. The sharp decline underscores the ongoing impact of the standoff on one of the world’s key energy corridors.

Iran denies U.S. charges

Iran continues to reject Washington’s assertions over the waterway. Tehran has said the strait will fully reopen only if the US naval blockade is lifted and sanctions removed and Iranian assets unfrozen. Iran, too, has claimed to wield considerable influence over the strategic passage.

Global Energy Concerns Mount

The standoff has broader implications because the Strait of Hormuz is a vital conduit for the world’s energy shipments. Higher oil prices and fears of supply disruptions have been assisted by continued curbs. The International Energy Agency also lowered its oil-demand forecast for 2026, citing the long shutdown and high fuel prices.

Trump’s latest comments underscore Washington’s hardline stance as stalled diplomatic efforts leave the future of the waterway in the balance. The competing claims by Washington and Tehran are likely to keep the strategic strait in the center of international attention.

Global Energy Concerns Grow

The standoff has broader consequences because the Strait of Hormuz is a major route for global energy shipments. Continued restrictions have contributed to higher oil prices and concerns over supply disruptions. The International Energy Agency has also cut its 2026 oil-demand forecast, citing the prolonged closure and elevated fuel prices.

Trump’s latest comments underline Washington’s hard-line position, while stalled diplomatic efforts leave the future of the waterway uncertain. The competing claims by Washington and Tehran are likely to keep the strategic strait at the centre of international attention.