Trump Considers Taking Control of Strait of Hormuz Amidst Iran Conflict

As tensions with Iran escalate, former President Donald Trump has publicly discussed the possibility of the United States taking control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil shipments. This consideration comes as oil tanker traffic has faced disruptions due to the ongoing conflict.

The Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz

The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is the world’s most important oil transit chokepoint. Approximately 20 million barrels of oil and liquefied natural gas passed through the strait each day in 2025, representing nearly one-fifth of global flows according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. The value of this trade is estimated at around $600 billion annually.

The strait is used by major energy exporters including Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Roughly 3,000 ships transit the strait each month .

Trump’s Proposal and Potential Implications

In a March 9, 2026, interview with CBS News, Trump stated he is considering “taking over” the waterway to secure energy supplies . He too suggested the U.S. Navy could escort tankers through the strait if necessary . Trump indicated the military campaign against Iran was progressing faster than expected, claiming, “They have no navy, no communications, they’ve got no Air Force” .

The legality of such a move under international law has been questioned . Control of the Strait of Hormuz is currently divided between Iran, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates.

Iran’s Response

Ali Larijani, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, warned that the Strait of Hormuz will “either be a strait of peace and prosperity for all” or a “strait of …” , signaling potential further disruption if the U.S. Attempts to unilaterally control the waterway. Following military strikes, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has declared the strait “closed” and threatened any vessels attempting passage .

Current Situation

As of March 10, 2026, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz is reportedly moving again, though Trump was “thinking about taking it over” .