An official from Iran stated on Thursday that the nation maintains command over the Strait of Hormuz, directly contradicting assertions of American oversight made by President Donald Trump. Hossein Taeb, who leads the Basij paramilitary forces associated with the Revolutionary Guards, affirmed through state media that the waterway is currently managed by the Islamic republic. He emphasized that the region remains secure under Iranian oversight.
These statements follow remarks made by President Trump on August 9, where he indicated a preference for increasing economic sanctions rather than pursuing further military intervention. This shift in strategy occurred after Iran presented specific requirements for lifting the blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, which has been largely inaccessible since the regional conflict began in late February.