'I think we'll keep it': Trump says US controls Hormuz, IDF believes blockade is 'highly effective'

US President Donald Trump stated on Truth Social that the United States has "total control over the Strait of Hormuz," referring to its naval blockade as a "WALL OF STEEL." He asserted that Iran's military is weak and its economy is in disarray, with "300% INFLATION." Israeli officials concur, with IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir telling the Security Cabinet that "The blockade of Iran is highly effective. The economic crisis there is getting worse." The blockade has severely impacted Iran's maritime trade, causing disruptions to supply chains and exacerbating a foreign currency shortage. Experts predict a 5.6% economic contraction this year, the sharpest since 1988. This economic pressure is expected to intensify domestic unrest, despite the brutal suppression of recent protests. Trump also told reporters that the US Navy had "mine-swept the entire strait." US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz indicated that Iran fears economic sanctions more than military action, stating, "When they're coming to the table with our negotiators, they are talking about cash, cash, cash."