Trump Warns Iran Again as US Strikes Cargo Ship Near Hormuz

US President Donald Trump has issued another stern warning to Iran, saying Washington does not trust the ongoing talks with Tehran. Trump claimed that the United States has “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz and warned Iran of a strong response if it withdraws from negotiations or takes any provocative action. His remarks come amid heightened tensions in the strategically important waterway, which remains critical to global energy and shipping routes.

Tensions escalated after a US Navy helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles at the Panama-flagged cargo vessel Vela Nova in the Gulf of Oman, according to US officials. The vessel was targeted after allegedly attempting to breach the US blockade of Iranian ports. Meanwhile, shipping demand through the Panama Canal has risen as vessels seek alternative routes amid the Hormuz crisis. Canal auction prices have surged, with some transit slots reaching nearly $3.8 million, while El Niño-related water concerns are adding further pressure.