The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil trade, has become a point of contention between the US and Iran. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that the US has total control over the strait, but experts say the reality is more complicated.

Disputed Control

Iran has stated that it will not reopen the strait fully until the US meets its conditions. The US naval blockade of Iran is still in effect, barring ships from going to or from any Iranian port. This has significantly reduced traffic through the strait, with only 14 vessels crossing on Tuesday, compared to the roughly 120 ships that used to cross daily before the war.

Experts say that the US does not have total control over the strait, citing the presence of Iranian forces and the risk of attacks on vessels. The US has a military advantage, but its forces in the region are stretched thin, and it needs to replenish them to increase its leverage in negotiations with Iran.

Implications

The dispute over control of the Strait of Hormuz has significant implications for global oil trade and the economy. The closure of the strait has wreaked havoc on global economies and the energy sector, piling pressure on the US to find a solution or guarantee safe passage through the waterway.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.