Trump Claims US Controls Strait of Hormuz, Considers Ending Iran Conflict

U.S. President Donald Trump declared that Washington controls the Strait of Hormuz and has inflicted significant military damage on Iran, which he stated seeks to "destroy Israel." Trump made these remarks during a White House event, asserting that U.S. actions in the region are intended to aid the Middle East, Israel, and the United States itself. He characterized Iran's situation as "not good at all" and suggested it was "only a matter of time" before further consequences. The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump is considering officially declaring an end to the conflict with Iran, though a final decision has not been made.

In parallel, U.S. Secretary of Defense has extended the deployment of approximately 50,000 American troops, 19 warships, and air defense systems in the Middle East until 2027. This extended deployment aims to maintain U.S. control in the region and deter further Iranian aggression. The decision follows a stepped-up naval blockade against Iran, during which U.S. forces have diverted, disabled, or inspected numerous commercial vessels. This blockade, renewed in July, is designed to cripple Iran's economy by restricting the movement of goods and military equipment.

Israeli defense officials are increasing their vigilance amid the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have completed preparations for various scenarios, including defensive and offensive plans, out of concern that exchanges between the U.S. and Iran could broaden into a wider conflict that includes missile fire towards Israel. Defense Minister Israel Katz noted the possibility of an Iranian attack during the upcoming holiday period, stating, "As U.S. pressure on Iran increases and the friction and economic strangulation on Iran increases, there is a likelihood that they will attack. We are prepared for it defensively."