The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy passage, is reportedly named after a Zoroastrian deity destined to triumph after a 9,000-year standoff. Iran’s leadership believes their own strategic victory is near and does not require such prolonged patience.

Iran is leveraging military pressure to compel the United States to accept its control over the strait. Tehran is aware of the US’s diminishing stockpiles of advanced missile interceptors and the economic impact of a largely closed strait, which keeps petrol and goods prices high ahead of the US congressional elections in November 2026.

However, Iran also recognizes the risks involved. Attempts to forcibly reopen the strait could be costly and might necessitate deployment of American ground troops. Additionally, Iran’s Houthi allies in Yemen have the potential to escalate the conflict by disrupting another major trade route.

Given these factors, Iran appears confident that US President Donald Trump will have limited options but to yield to their demands.

Sources

South China Morning Post World, August 8, 2026: Iran thinks it has Trump cornered – but what are the risks?