Video: Trump claims US has ‘total control’ around Strait of Hormuz, presses Iran on deal
United States President Donald Trump
Abdullateef Fowewe
President Donald Trump has claimed that the United States has “total control” around the Strait of Hormuz, escalating pressure on Iran as stalled negotiations continue over reopening the strategic shipping route.
Speaking at Joint Base Andrews, Trump portrayed Iran as facing severe economic and internal strain, alleging that Tehran lacked funds and was struggling to pay its security personnel.
“We have total control” around the Strait of Hormuz area, Trump said, while insisting Iran’s economic position had weakened sharply.
He claimed Iran had “no money,” was unable to adequately pay its soldiers and police, and was experiencing inflation of “350%.”
Trump also said Tehran remained interested in reaching an agreement with Washington but had yet to accept terms the US considers acceptable.
“They would love to make a deal, but they’re not ready to make the right deal, in my opinion,” Trump said, adding that Washington was prepared to wait for Iran’s next move.
The comments come after the expiration in mid-August of a June memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran aimed at facilitating the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz following the conflict.
Negotiations have reportedly stalled over sanctions relief, naval blockade arrangements and Iran’s demand for a role in managing maritime traffic alongside Oman.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime passages, making the prolonged impasse a major concern for regional security and global energy markets.
Iran disputes inflation claim
Iran has faced mounting economic pressure from the effects of war, sanctions and continued depreciation of the rial.
Recent figures have placed annual inflation between 66% and 88%, while unemployment has reportedly risen to 9.1%.
Food prices have also surged, worsening pressure on Iranian households.
However, Iranian state media has rejected Trump’s 350% inflation claim as an exaggeration, arguing that while inflation remains severe, the figure does not reflect official data.
