Trump says he and 'the ayatollah' can share control of Strait of Hormuz

Key Points:

• US President Donald Trump suggested he and Iran's ayatollah could "jointly" control the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway through which 20% of global energy supplies pass, signaling a potential shift in US policy towards Iran.
• Trump indicated ongoing "very good and productive conversations" aimed at ending the US-Israeli conflict with Iran, though Iran denied any formal dialogue but acknowledged regional efforts to reduce tensions.
• Iran has effectively asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz through military force and strategic influence, disrupting US dominance and securing a "de facto 'safe' shipping corridor" within its territorial waters.
• The Trump administration's recent lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil at sea has eased energy prices but also benefited Tehran, highlighting a complex dynamic amid escalating regional tensions.
• Iran's control of the strait has allowed it to guide vessels, secure payments for safe passage, and engage with countries like China and India, marking a significant geopolitical shift and a setback for US influence in the region.