Trump hails 'wall of steel' blockade, says US will keep control of Strait of Hormuz

Key Points:

• President Donald Trump asserted that the United States has "total control" over the strategic Strait of Hormuz and intends to maintain this control, describing the U.S. naval blockade as a "WALL OF STEEL."
• Iran disputes U.S. claims, stating it effectively controls much of the waterway and plans to impose a toll system in response to the conflict initiated by the U.S. on February 28.
• The ongoing nearly six-month war has involved heavy U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran's military and leadership, while Iran has retaliated with missile attacks and disruptions to shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, impacting global trade.
• With declining political support ahead of the U.S. midterm elections, Trump has moderated his stance on escalating the conflict, favoring a "low-key" blockade strategy targeting Iranian ports.
• Trump indicated the U.S. is "semi-negotiating" with Iran while monitoring the country's economic struggles, including high inflation and financial difficulties.