Iran said it maintains complete strategic control over the Strait of Hormuz to protect its national interests [1].
The dispute centers on one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, where any disruption to shipping could trigger global economic instability. Tensions have escalated as both Tehran and Washington contest who holds the authority to regulate passage through the waters between Oman and Iran [1].
Iranian government and military authorities said on Jan. 28, 2026, that they have full control of the strait [1]. Officials said that any unauthorized passage through the waterway would be considered illegal [2]. These statements come as a direct response to assertions from the United States regarding the security of the region [3].
U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States could take control of the Strait of Hormuz and act as its guardian [3]. This claim sparked an immediate reaction from Iranian leadership, who said the move is necessary to deter foreign interference [1].
Not all experts agree with the feasibility of the U.S. position. A war historian said the idea of the U.S. taking control of the strait is not in the realm of reality [4]. Despite this, the conflicting claims from the two powers have increased the threat of military confrontation in the region [1].
Iran maintains that its naval capabilities are sufficient to enforce its will in the strait. The government said it will continue to defend its sovereign interests against any attempts by the U.S. to assume a guardianship role over the waterway [1, 3].
“Iran says it has 'complete control' of the Strait of Hormuz.”
The conflicting claims of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz highlight a dangerous geopolitical friction point. Because the strait is the primary artery for global oil shipments, any attempt by the U.S. to enforce 'guardianship' or by Iran to block 'unauthorized' traffic could lead to a direct military clash or a global energy crisis.
