INTERNATIONAL — April 23, 2026
Trump Asserts US Control Over Strait of Hormuz, Cites Iranian Leadership Confusion
US President Donald Trump asserted American control over the Strait of Hormuz and cited internal Iranian leadership confusion, while White House officials demand a unified negotiating stance from Tehran amid ongoing diplomatic efforts.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Amu TV — 2 min read

US President Donald Trump stated that Iran is experiencing internal leadership confusion and asserted that the United States maintains complete control over the Strait of Hormuz. In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump said American authority over the strategic waterway will remain in effect until Tehran reaches a formal agreement with Washington regarding ongoing bilateral tensions.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the diplomatic situation, noting that while American officials are aware of who holds ultimate decision-making power in Iran, they require a unified response and a single negotiating offer from the Iranian government. Her remarks underscore the administration’s position that fragmented messaging from Tehran is hindering progress.
US officials suspect significant internal divisions among Iranian political factions, military institutions, and diplomatic negotiating teams. These assessments emerge as diplomatic channels remain active in efforts to de-escalate tensions between the two countries. The combined statements from the president and White House officials highlight Washington’s current focus on securing a clear, centralized commitment from Iranian leadership before advancing further negotiations. The remarks were made against a backdrop of sustained diplomatic engagement aimed at resolving long-standing disputes. Administration officials have repeatedly emphasized that a cohesive negotiating stance from Tehran is a prerequisite for any formal accord. Meanwhile, international observers continue to monitor developments in the region as both sides navigate the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding the waterway.
Read the original reporting at Amu TV →
Reliability assessment
Single source provides direct, on-record attribution to named public figures (Donald Trump, Karoline Leavitt) and cites specific platforms and outlets (Truth Social, CNN). The verifiable fact is that these officials made these statements regarding US-Iran tensions and the Strait of Hormuz, which meets the threshold for reliable attribution per verification guidelines.
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Amu TV
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International — Donald Trump, Iran, United States, Strait of Hormuz, Karoline Leavitt
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