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Iran Announces Resumption of Hormuz Strait Control; Trump Responds 'Cannot Blackmail U.S.'
Heightened Conflict Over Hormuz Strait Control
Iran recently announced its intention to regain control over the Strait of Hormuz. This declaration followed Iran's initial statement to open the strait, which U.S. President Donald Trump initially 'thanked,' but then reiterated that the 'naval blockade against Iran will remain in effect.' Within 24 hours, Iran reversed its stance, declaring it would resume control of the strait. Trump responded that Iran cannot 'blackmail' the U.S., escalating tensions. The UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported receiving multiple reports of incidents involving vessels near the Strait of Hormuz on April 18.
Iran Reinforces Control and Considers U.S. Negotiations
The public relations office of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy announced on the evening of April 18 that the Strait of Hormuz would be closed due to the U.S. violating the ceasefire agreement and failing to lift blockades on Iranian vessels and ports. Iran intends to maintain control of the strait until the blockade is lifted. On the same day, the Secretariat of Iran's Supreme National Security Council issued a statement on the latest developments in negotiations with the U.S., asserting Iran's determination to supervise and control traffic in the Strait of Hormuz until the war is definitively over and lasting peace is achieved in the region. The statement also mentioned that the U.S. had put forward new proposals during a recent visit by a delegation from Qatar to Iran, which Iran is currently reviewing but has not yet responded to. Iran's First Vice President Aref emphasized Iran's right to manage the Strait of Hormuz.
*Source: 香港文匯網 (2026-04-19)*
