Trump threatens to claim Strait of Hormuz
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Trump threatens new Iran strikes after US hits Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island. Oil prices rise above $90 a barrel as Strait of Hormuz tensions escalate.
Background
The US and Iran have exchanged fire for the first time in weeks, with the US striking Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island, which it said were preparing to deploy sea mines in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by launching missiles at US bases in Jordan and the UAE. This escalation follows months of conflict over the strait, a vital waterway for global oil shipments, and has pushed oil prices higher.
How it unfolded
- Aug 31, 2026US military strikes Iranian rocket launchers on Larak Island, saying they posed an imminent threat to the Strait of Hormuz. Trump posts AI videos claiming Kharg Island is being destroyed.
- Sep 1, 2026Iran launches missiles at US bases in Jordan and the UAE in retaliation. Trump threatens to hit Iran 'hard' and claims the US has 'almost total control' of the strait.
- Sep 2, 2026Iran reports deaths from strikes, Houthis warn US allies, and Trump dismisses talks, saying he 'couldn't care less' if Iran signs an agreement.
Who’s saying what
- US
- Trump says the US has 'almost total control' of the Strait of Hormuz and that all Iranian missiles capable of causing damage were downed.
- Iran
- Iran's Revolutionary Guards call Trump's claims 'an obvious lie' and insist the strait remains closed to ships without Iranian permission.
- Analysts
- The renewed clashes reignite supply concerns, with oil prices rising above $90 a barrel and Brent crude climbing towards $97.
Still unverified
Iran reported deaths from strikes, but specific numbers are not confirmed. Trump's claim of 'almost total control' is disputed by Iran. The US military dismissed Iran's claim that a tanker hit mines, calling it 'disinformation'.