Trump: I will make the Strait of Hormuz a US territory

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared his intention to declare the Strait of Hormuz as U.S. territory following the end of the war with Iran, according to remarks he made during an appearance in the state of New Jersey. Trump stated that once Iran has been defeated, despite having suffered a “devastating defeat”, he would formally designate the strategic waterway as American territory. He did not provide further specifics regarding how this declaration might be implemented or what steps would follow such a move. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, has become a focal point of tension between the United States and Iran. The region’s significance was underscored by recent spikes in oil prices, which were driven by Iranian threats to disrupt shipping traffic through the narrow passage. This has heightened concerns among international actors about the stability of one of the world’s most vital energy corridors. Iran has maintained control over the strait, asserting its authority over whether it remains open or closed. In response to Trump’s comments, Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Kassem Gharibabadi, emphasized that the country would not be intimidated by U.S. threats or displays of power. Speaking via the social media platform X, Gharibabadi reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz would remain under Iranian control, with decisions about its access being made exclusively by Tehran. His statement came amid ongoing diplomatic and military posturing between the two nations, which have long been locked in a cycle of mutual distrust and confrontation. The potential U.S. claim over the Strait of Hormuz raises complex legal and geopolitical questions. As a key maritime route connecting the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea, the strait is essential for the flow of nearly 20 percent of the world's seaborne oil. Any attempt by the United States to assert territorial claims over such a strategically sensitive area could provoke sharp responses from regional allies of Iran, including countries like China, Russia, and several Gulf states. It could also lead to increased militarization of the region, raising the risk of direct conflict. Analysts suggest that Trump’s remarks reflect a broader strategy aimed at demonstrating U.S. dominance in the Middle East and countering Iranian influence. However, the feasibility of such a plan remains uncertain. Legal experts note that international law does not clearly support unilateral declarations of sovereignty over bodies of water that are widely recognized as international passages. Additionally, the practical challenges of enforcing such a claim, particularly given the presence of other major powers with interests in the region, could complicate any U.S. efforts to implement the idea. The situation has drawn attention from global markets, where oil prices have already fluctuated due to tensions surrounding the strait. Energy analysts warn that further escalation of hostilities or territorial disputes could lead to more severe disruptions in global supply chains. Meanwhile, diplomatic channels remain open, though progress toward de-escalation appears limited. Both sides continue to engage in rhetoric-laden exchanges, with each accusing the other of destabilizing the region. As the conflict between the United States and Iran continues to unfold, the prospect of Trump’s proposed action adds another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile situation. While the U.S. president has not yet outlined specific plans for implementing his vision, the mere suggestion of such a move underscores the deepening rift between Washington and Tehran. The coming weeks will likely see continued scrutiny of both nations' actions and their potential impact on global security and economic stability.