IN RISKY GAMBLE, IRAN BETS CONTROL OVER STRAIT OF HORMUZ CAN FORCE TRUMP TO BEND

According to The Times of Israel, Tehran has announced that it is willing to use control of the Strait of Hormuz as a bargaining chip to force U.S. President Donald Trump to change course. The Iranian government argues that shortages in U.S. munitions and domestic voter discontent over high energy prices give it a strategic advantage.

The Times of Israel reports that Tehran believes the U.S. is vulnerable because of its limited arms supplies and rising public anger at rising fuel costs. Meanwhile, a top U.S. general has urged an 'off‑ramp' to a war, saying Tehran and Oman are close to a deal over the strait. CBS News added that Iran has targeted a ship in the Strait of Hormuz even as it claims a deal is near, suggesting the country is keeping pressure options open.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil traffic; any Iranian control would have major economic and geopolitical implications, especially for U.S. interests in the region.

• Tehran sees U.S. munitions shortages and domestic energy discontent as leverage.
• A U.S. general is pushing for a war 'off‑ramp' while Iran and Oman negotiate.
• Iran has recently targeted a ship in the strait but asserts a deal is close.

Read the original source for full detail available at The Times of Israel src