In a significant development concerning the ongoing conflict with Iran, U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled a potential declaration of the Strait of Hormuz as “a territory of the United States.” This statement comes amid continued efforts by Washington to negotiate an end to hostilities with Tehran. During remarks made in New York on Friday, Trump suggested that this declaration could happen “pretty soon” following a U.S. victory over Iran. He also asserted that the U.S. maintains effective control over the strategically vital waterway through an existing blockade.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage, is key to global oil shipments, with around 20% of the world’s seaborne oil supply typically transiting this route. Situated between Iran and Oman, the strait has largely remained closed since U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran commenced. While Trump’s comments could indicate a shift in U.S. policy, they might also be intended as a political gesture; however, there is no official confirmation as yet.
In response to the U.S. President’s threat, Iran has firmly rejected any attempts to undermine its authority over the Strait of Hormuz. Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized that Tehran would not bow to U.S. pressure, reaffirming that the decision-making power regarding the strait’s status rests solely with Iran. Additionally, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi clarified that Tehran has not yet decided to engage in formal negotiations with Washington, with current communications via Qatar and Pakistan not amounting to official talks.
Iran has laid out several conditions for reopening the strait to shipping, including demands for compensation for damage caused by the conflict, the lifting of economic sanctions, and the release of frozen Iranian assets. The ongoing impasse has had a ripple effect on global fuel prices, leading to increased costs for consumers. President Trump has defended these rising prices, arguing that they are a necessary measure to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The persistent deadlock over the Strait of Hormuz continues to raise alarms about the stability of global energy supplies and the broader economic repercussions of the conflict. As tensions remain high, the international community watches closely for any developments that could either escalate or resolve the situation.