TEHRAN – Iranian officials have publicly rejected recent assertions by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that the critical maritime passage operates under Iran's sovereign authority and will continue to do so solely on Tehran's terms. The statement, issued on November 6, 2023, underscores Iran's long-standing position on the strategic waterway, which is vital for global energy supplies.

The response from Tehran came after former President Trump, in a public address on October 30, 2023, reportedly claimed the United States maintained "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Nasser Kanaani, dismissed these comments as "baseless and far from reality," asserting that such declarations ignore established international law and the geographic realities of the region.

"The Strait of Hormuz is an inseparable part of Iran's territorial waters and maritime boundaries, subject entirely to our national sovereignty and national security considerations," Kanaani stated in a press briefing in Tehran. "Any passage through this strait must adhere to international regulations, maritime safety protocols, and, crucially, respect Iran's undeniable sovereign rights. Claims of external 'total control' are nothing more than political rhetoric designed to mislead."

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow stretch of water between Iran and Oman, is one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints.

  • Approximately one-fifth of the world's total petroleum liquids consumption, or about 21 million barrels per day, passed through the strait in 2022, according to data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
  • It also facilitates a significant portion of the world's liquefied natural gas (LNG) trade.
  • Its strategic importance makes it a frequent point of tension in international relations, particularly concerning Iran's interactions with Western nations and its regional rivals.

Iran has historically asserted its right to control passage through the strait, especially in times of heightened political or economic pressure, such as global sanctions targeting its oil exports. Tehran has previously threatened to block or impede shipping through the waterway in response to perceived threats or economic warfare. These threats have consistently raised concerns among international shipping companies and global energy markets.

The current rejection of Trump’s claim serves as a reaffirmation of Iran’s consistent policy. Iranian military officials, including those from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), have repeatedly stated their readiness to secure the strait and respond to any perceived violations of its sovereignty. Rear Admiral Alireza Tangsiri, commander of the IRGC Navy, has previously emphasized Iran's "full dominance" over the strait, reiterating that the presence of non-regional forces complicates regional stability.

This latest exchange highlights ongoing geopolitical sensitivities surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. While former President Trump no longer holds office, his statements continue to draw reactions from key international players. The Iranian government's swift and firm denial signals that Tehran remains vigilant regarding any assertions that challenge its authority over this pivotal maritime corridor, indicating that the status of the Strait of Hormuz will likely remain a critical topic in global energy and security discussions.