President Donald Trump suggested the United States could share control of the Strait of Hormuz with Iran’s surviving leadership, introducing an unconventional proposal as tensions remain high but diplomatic signals begin to emerge.
Speaking amid reports of backchannel discussions, Trump said the critical shipping lane — which carries roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply — could potentially be reopened under a joint arrangement.
At one point, Trump said the strait could be “jointly controlled,” adding in a lighthearted remark that “maybe me” could oversee it alongside “whoever the next ayatollah is.”
Leadership uncertainty in Iran
Iran’s current supreme leader is Mojtaba Khamenei, who assumed power following the death of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
U.S. officials have not formally recognized his leadership. Trump has called the transition “unacceptable” and questioned the new leadership while maintaining pressure on Tehran.
Iran’s former supreme leader was also reportedly skeptical of his son’s suitability to lead, citing concerns about his capability and qualifications, according to intelligence assessments and media reports, while other personal allegations, including romantic preferences, remain unverified.
Shift in tone
Trump’s remarks mark a notable shift from earlier rhetoric, which included threats to secure the strait unilaterally, calls for allied patrols, and warnings of potential strikes on key infrastructure if shipping lanes were not reopened.
Iranian officials have rejected a 15-point U.S. proposal to end the conflict, calling it a “wish list” and dismissing it as ineffective despite ongoing military pressure. Tehran also denied that negotiations are taking place and reiterated demands for an end to U.S. and Israeli operations.
The Islamic Republic subsequently countered by demanding a complete halt to U.S. and Israeli military operations, along with full control over the Strait of Hormuz.
Tehran has also threatened to use drones and ballistic missiles to target similar facilities in neighboring Gulf states, including desalination plants — critical infrastructure in a region with minimal rainfall and almost no freshwater resources.
Behind-the-scenes diplomacy
Reports indicate that indirect talks have taken place through intermediaries such as Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan, with regional powers seeking to broker a ceasefire or broader agreement.
Proposals under discussion have reportedly included some form of neutral or shared oversight of the strait, though details remain unclear.
Iranian officials have rejected elements of a U.S. proposal aimed at ending the conflict and have publicly denied that direct negotiations are underway, instead calling for a halt to U.S. and Israeli military operations.
Why the strait matters
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints:
- It serves as the primary maritime outlet for much of the Persian Gulf
- Disruptions have already triggered volatility in global oil markets
- Control of the strait carries significant economic and geopolitical leverage
Bottom line
Trump’s suggestion of shared control reflects a broader, fluid strategy combining military pressure with diplomatic outreach. Whether the idea represents a concrete proposal or negotiating rhetoric remains unclear, but it underscores the high stakes surrounding control of a vital global energy corridor.
READ NEXT: Special Election Victory Spells Trouble For MAGA
When the so-called ‘leaders’ of a country, which is being militarily defeated, DEMAND that we let them continue to terrorize the world, it becomes time to end the problem!
This situation MUST END! And freedom must win!
That they demand anything is truly laughable. We should settle for nothing less than unconditional surrender. We should also take enough oil to pay our expenses and Israel’s expenses of this war —- even if it is over time. This regime has to go or our children will have to deal with this same scenario or worse in the years ahead.
You have to hand it to the arabs in the middle east at least they know enough to use desalination for water 💦 supply! The dumb California governor spends billions on a stupid train and tells the citizens not to use water 💦, instead of developing the Pacific Ocean for water