U.S. and Iran Clash Over Control of Strait of Hormuz

The United States and Iran are engaged in escalating military and political conflict over the control of the Strait of Hormuz. After Donald Trump asserted that the waterway was under U.S. control, Iran declared the strait closed and launched cruise missile and drone attacks on commercial vessels, leaving nearly a dozen seafarers dead, wounded, or missing.

In response, U.S. Central Command executed extensive airstrikes on Wednesday, including a seven-hour wave and a subsequent 90-minute wave targeting Iranian naval, drone, and missile sites along the southern coastline. Despite these strikes and a renewed U.S. blockade, shipping traffic has dwindled as vessels avoid U.S.-backed routes. U.S. officials are currently weighing further options, such as naval escorts or a large-scale ground operation in southern Iran.

Parallel to the military escalation, the conflict has shifted toward a struggle for regulatory authority and economic benefit. President Trump briefly proposed a 20% fee on cargo transiting the strait before withdrawing the plan to seek compensation through trade and investment agreements. Meanwhile, Iran is debating legislation to institutionalize its control by requiring vessels to use Iranian-approved routes and permits. This transactional approach to maritime security has prompted China to seek reduced dependence on vulnerable sea lanes and potentially encouraged Russia to seek similar control over strategic choke points like the Arctic.