Former President Donald Trump's assertion of "total control" over the Strait of Hormuz has been challenged by Fox News anchor Bret Baier. Trump claimed on social media that the U.S. has "total control" over the waterway and that a "WALL OF STEEL" naval blockade prevents Iran from taking action.
Baier, however, presented data indicating a significant decrease in vessel traffic through the strait. According to Baier, over 100 vessels per day previously crossed the Strait of Hormuz, but in the days following the U.S. and Israeli conflict with Iran, traffic dropped to just eight vessels on one day and 14 the next. This contradicts Trump's claims of complete control.
During the segment, Baier also referenced the Trump administration's own energy outlook for 2026, which had projected increases in the price of Brent crude oil and retail gasoline. Currently, the average price for a gallon of gas remains above $4, a point noted as the first time this has occurred this late in the year, according to GasBuddy. Brent crude oil is trading around $80 per barrel.
Meanwhile, Iran has indicated it is nearing a deal with Oman for joint control of the strait. Iran has stated it will not reopen the waterway until the U.S. alters its actions. Among Iran's demands are the removal of the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports, a permanent end to the conflict, and military withdrawal from the region. Iran is also seeking war reparations from the U.S., the lifting of sanctions, and the unconditional release of frozen assets. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil supply transited before the recent conflict.