Trump Considers US Control Over Strategic Strait Amid Ongoing Iran Conflict

In a recent interview, President Trump suggested the possibility of the US taking control of the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict with Iran. This strategic waterway is crucial for global oil transportation, with significant implications for international trade and energy prices. As tensions rise, questions arise regarding the legality of such a move and its potential impact on global markets. Experts warn that disruptions in this vital route could lead to increased oil prices and affect economies worldwide, particularly in Asia. The situation remains fluid as the US Navy considers its role in ensuring maritime security in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 10, 2026, 03:31 IST

US President's Remarks on the Strait of Hormuz

In light of the ongoing conflict in Iran, President Donald Trump has indicated that he is contemplating the United States taking control of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil transportation. During an interview with CBS News, Trump noted that the military operations against Iran are advancing more swiftly than anticipated. He stated, "The war is nearly complete. They lack a navy, effective communication, and an air force," and mentioned that the US is significantly ahead of his previous prediction of a four to five-week duration for the conflict. When asked about the Strait of Hormuz, through which a substantial portion of the world's oil is transported, Trump acknowledged that shipping activities have resumed but expressed his thoughts on potentially taking control of the area. This has raised questions regarding the legality of such an action under international law.

Significance of the Strait of Hormuz

Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters

The Strait of Hormuz is recognized as the most vital oil transit chokepoint globally. It is flanked by Iran to the north and Oman and the UAE to the south, measuring approximately 50 kilometers at its widest and narrowing to about 33 kilometers at its tightest point. According to the US Energy Information Administration, around 20 million barrels of oil traversed the strait daily in 2025, accounting for nearly 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, valued at approximately $600 billion annually.

This route is not only utilized by Iran but also by major oil-exporting nations like Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE, with around 3,000 vessels navigating through the strait each month. Energy analysts caution that any prolonged disruption could lead to increased global oil prices and higher shipping costs. Arne Lohmann Rasmussen, chief analyst at Global Risk Management, remarked, "It is effectively closed as no one dares to transit it," during his conversation with CBS News.

Iran's Stance and Global Consequences

Iran's Threats and Global Impact

Iran has issued warnings that it may target ships attempting to navigate through the strait. General Sardar Jabbari of Iran stated that the nation would "not allow a single drop of oil to leave the region," and officials have threatened to "set fire" to vessels trying to pass through. Iran exports approximately 1.7 million barrels of oil daily, as reported by the International Energy Agency. The Central Bank of Iran estimates that the country earned around $67 billion from oil exports in the financial year ending March 2025, marking the highest earnings in a decade.

A disruption in the strait would particularly impact Asian economies, with about 82% of crude oil and condensates passing through the strait in 2022 destined for Asian markets, according to the US Energy Information Administration. China is estimated to purchase around 90% of Iran's oil exports, meaning that rising energy costs could have widespread effects on global supply chains and consumer prices.

Trump's Proposals for Maritime Security

What Trump Has Proposed

On Monday evening, the United States Navy informed the shipping industry that there were no immediate plans to escort vessels through the strait. However, by Tuesday, Trump hinted at a possible change in strategy, stating, "If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz." He also announced on his social media platform that he had instructed the United States International Development Finance Corporation to offer political risk insurance and financial guarantees for maritime trade in the Gulf. Trump noted, "You can be attacked, and securing insurance can be either impossible or prohibitively expensive, forcing you to wait for a more stable security situation." He emphasized that if oil and gas shipments from the strait were halted, it would have significant market implications.

Shipping experts have expressed doubts about the feasibility of quickly organizing naval escorts. Richard Meade, editor-in-chief of Lloyd's List, mentioned that insurers, tanker operators, and security advisors remain cautious. He added that even if naval escorts were arranged, it would likely require more naval resources than currently available to ensure effective protection, noting that navigating the narrow channel could take around ten hours and necessitate substantial naval assets.

Legal Framework Governing the Strait

Who Governs the Strait?

The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, established in 1982, outlines the regulations governing maritime areas, including territorial seas extending 12 nautical miles from a nation's coastline. The Strait of Hormuz, located within the territorial waters of both Iran and Oman, is subject to a special regime known as "transit passage." This system permits ships to pass through straits utilized for international navigation swiftly and continuously. Article 44 of the treaty specifies that countries bordering such waterways "shall not impede transit passage," and this right cannot be suspended.

Iran's Limitations Under International Law

Could Iran Close the Strait?

International law does not grant Iran the authority to completely close the strait. Previous maritime regulations, including the 1958 Geneva Convention on the Territorial Sea, recognized that straits used for international navigation cannot be arbitrarily shut down. This convention, ratified by Iran, allowed for what is termed "non-suspendable innocent passage" for foreign vessels. The subsequent United Nations treaty reinforced these protections by establishing a broader transit passage framework.

Challenges for US Control

Could the US Take Control?

Experts assert that the legal complexities would hinder any attempt by the United States to "take over" the strait. Although the US has not formally ratified the Law of the Sea treaty, it generally adheres to its principles as customary international law. Given that the strait lies within the territorial waters of Iran and Oman, it falls within the 12-mile nautical limit of these nations. Currently, analysts are focused on whether shipping through the strait can safely resume amid the escalating tensions involving the US, Israel, and Iran.