Trump declares intent to make Strait of Hormuz U.S. territory

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared his intention to designate the Strait of Hormuz as U.S. territory once Iran is defeated. Speaking at a campaign event in New York, Trump stated, "As soon as we defeat Iran – which is suffering a devastating defeat – I will declare the Strait of Hormuz the territory of the United States." He did not elaborate further on this plan.

Iran, however, remains unfazed by the announcement. Vice Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi asserted on the social media platform X that Tehran will not be intimidated by U.S. threats or power displays. He emphasized that Iran alone controls the Strait of Hormuz, dictating whether it is blocked or opened.

Trump's statement arrives amid stalled efforts to end the Iran war, with a 60-day ceasefire agreement nearing its expiration without renewal. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital global trade route for oil and gas, has been a central point of conflict between Washington and Tehran. The war has previously caused oil prices to surge due to Iran's threats and attacks impacting shipping in the narrow waterway.

This is not the first time Trump has publicly floated such annexation plans, having made similar remarks regarding Venezuela, Cuba, and Greenland. Previously, he threatened to impose tolls on the strait, but later rescinded the plan. A prior agreement stipulated that Iran would not impose fees during the 60-day negotiation period, with further arrangements to be negotiated with Oman under international law. The deadline for this agreement is approaching.