Strait of Hormuz Control: Trump's Claim Undermined by Experts

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly claimed that the US controls the Strait of Hormuz, but experts say this is far from true. The strait is a critical waterway through which oil flows from countries like Saudi Arabia and Iraq to the rest of the world.

The reality on the ground is complicated, with ships fearing for their safety amid attacks on vessels in the strait. At least four vessels belonging to the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company were attacked by drones and missiles in the strait last week alone.

Iran has said it won't reopen the strait fully until the US meets its conditions, while the US naval blockade of Iran remains in effect, barring ships from going to or from any Iranian port. This has strangled Iran's cash flow and closed the strait to Iranian maritime trade.

The strait's closure has wreaked havoc on global economies and the energy sector, piling pressure on the US to find a solution or guarantee safe passage through the waterway.