Trump Announces Potential Joint Control of Strait of Hormuz Amidst Shifting Iran Strategy
West Palm Beach, FL – U.S. President Donald Trump indicated on Monday, March 23, 2026, that negotiations with Iran are progressing and that the Strait of Hormuz could soon be reopened. In a surprising turn, Trump also suggested a future scenario where control of the vital waterway would be shared between the United States and Iran, regardless of who leads the country.
Strait of Hormuz Reopening and Joint Control
Responding to questions from journalists, Trump stated the Strait of Hormuz would be opened “soon,” contingent on continued positive negotiations with Iranian representatives. He elaborated on a potential future arrangement, stating, “It will be controlled together,” adding, “Me and the Ayatollah, whoever the current Ayatollah is, whoever the next Ayatollah is.” This statement marks a significant shift in rhetoric, following previous threats of military action.
Regime Change in Iran
Alongside the discussion of shared control, Trump emphasized the expectation of regime change within Iran. He cited early attacks during the conflict that reportedly resulted in the deaths of many senior Iranian leaders, stating, “There will automatically be a regime change.” He added that talks over the weekend had shown promise for ending the conflict, noting, “But we’re dealing with some people who I think are very reasonable, very solid.”
Previous Threats and Shifting Strategy
Trump’s comments represent a departure from earlier, more aggressive stances. On March 9, 2026, he told CBS News that the U.S. War with Iran was “very complete,” claiming Iran’s military capabilities had been severely diminished. CBS News reported at the time that Trump asserted Iran had “no navy, no communications, they’ve got no air force.”
However, just days prior, Trump had initially set a deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, threatening potential strikes on Iranian power plants if the demand wasn’t met. PBS NewsHour reported that Trump later extended this deadline by five days, citing ongoing diplomatic negotiations. The Associated Press noted this shifting strategy drew criticism.
Economic Impact and Oil Prices
The conflict and the disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global oil supply (approximately 20% of the world’s oil passes through it), have had economic repercussions. CBS News reported that U.S. Benchmark crude oil prices dropped as much as 13.7% shortly after Trump’s initial interview, before partially rebounding. Despite the fluctuations, oil prices remain above pre-war levels.
Recent Leadership Changes in Iran
Late Sunday, March 22, 2026, Iran announced that Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei would succeed his father as Iran’s supreme leader. Trump stated he had “no message for him. None, whatsoever,” and indicated he had someone else in mind to lead the country.
The situation remains fluid, with the potential for both de-escalation and further conflict. The coming days will be critical in determining the future of the Strait of Hormuz and the broader U.S.-Iran relationship.