Trump: U.S. Could Become 'Guardian' of the Strait of Hormuz as CENTCOM Affirms Waterway Remains Open

U.S. Central Command reaffirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to lawful maritime traffic despite Iranian threats, while President Donald Trump said the United States could take responsibility for securing the strategic waterway and should be compensated for doing so.

CENTCOM: Strait Remains Open

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all vessels lawfully transiting the international waterway. The command said U.S. forces are positioned and prepared to protect freedom of navigation despite what it described as Iranian aggression, harassment, threats, and arbitrary declarations.

CENTCOM also emphasized that Iran does not control the Strait of Hormuz and confirmed that commercial and maritime traffic continues to move through the passage.

Trump Suggests U.S. Could Guard the Strait

During a phone interview on Fox News' Fox & Friends, President Donald Trump said the United States could take on a long-term role in protecting the Strait of Hormuz.

"We're going to keep the strait, and we'll probably run it. We'll become the guardian of the strait. Maybe we'll call it the guardian angel of the strait. And we should be reimbursed for that," Trump said.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints, with a significant share of global energy shipments passing through it. The latest statements come amid ongoing tensions with Iran and continued U.S. efforts to ensure the free flow of international commerce.