U.S. President Donald Trump said he is considering taking control of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing war between the United States and Iran.
In a phone interview with CBS News, Trump said shipping activity is continuing through the key maritime route but indicated that the United States could take steps to assert control over it.
“As for the Strait of Hormuz, ships are moving through now, but I’m thinking about taking it over,” Trump said.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints, with roughly one-fifth of global seaborne oil shipments passing through the narrow waterway each year.
The waterway, which connects the Persian Gulf to global shipping routes, has been at the centre of escalating tensions since the start of the conflict between U.S.-led forces and Iran earlier this year.
Trump also issued a warning to Iran during the interview, saying the country should avoid further escalation.
“They’ve shot everything they have to shoot, and they better not try anything else or it’s going to be the end of that country,” the U.S. president said.
The war has already triggered widespread disruptions across the region, including missile attacks, airstrikes and maritime security concerns affecting oil tankers and commercial shipping.
The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz has made it a focal point of global concern, particularly as tensions have driven sharp spikes in oil prices and disrupted supply chains worldwide.
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