Trump Asserts U.S. 'Total Control' Over Strait of Hormuz Amid Stalled Iran Talks and Naval Blockade

President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social that the United States has 'total control' over the Strait of Hormuz, adding 'I THINK WE WILL KEEP IT!' in a post emphasizing a U.S. naval blockade described as a 'WALL OF STEEL.' The claim comes amid an ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran that has lasted roughly six months, featuring a reimposed naval blockade after the breakdown of a June 2026 memorandum of understanding (MOU) intended to ensure safe passage for 60 days. Iran has disputed the assertion, maintaining that the strait remains effectively blocked until U.S. conditions are met and rejecting external control. Transit volumes through the critical oil shipping route have dropped to multi-month lows, heightening global energy market concerns. Parallel reporting from the Wall Street Journal describes Iran shifting to a 'survival economy,' rationing goods, limiting foreign currency access, and prioritizing state functions to withstand prolonged sanctions and pressure rather than capitulate. Regional mediators, including Pakistan, report no meaningful progress on reviving talks, with the original 60-day negotiation window effectively stalled. Analysts note the high-stakes Iranian bet on leveraging Hormuz control for leverage ahead of U.S. midterm elections, while experts like former diplomat Richard Haass have countered that no single power holds 'total control' over the waterway.