Sea power in the modern age — why Trump is taking over maritime trade routes

The Trump administration is prioritizing control of global maritime chokepoints as a central element of its "America First" foreign policy strategy, with recent military actions against Iran illustrating this broader approach. Major sea lanes—including passages near Iran that connect Middle Eastern oil producers to global markets—represent critical leverage points for economic and geopolitical influence in the modern era. By securing these routes, the administration aims to reinforce U.S. dominance over international trade flows and constrain rival powers' access to vital resources. The strategy reflects a shift toward viewing naval power and maritime geography as foundational to American economic strength and strategic advantage. This doctrine represents a return to earlier great-power competition models centered on controlling shipping lanes and trade corridors.