Tensions in the Middle East continue to mount following the collapse of the peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran. Amidst this ongoing friction, U.S. President Donald Trump shared a map regarding American claims over the Strait of Hormuz, designating it as a new territory of the country. President Trump posted the map on his Truth Social account, writing that it represents a new U.S. territory, the Hormuz Strait. This fresh assertion has once again intensified geopolitical ripples across the Middle East.
Previous Statements and Timeline
This is not the first time such remarks have been made by President Trump. Earlier, on August 14, during an event in Long Island, he stated that the Strait of Hormuz would soon be declared U.S. territory. A few days later, on August 18, he shared the exact same image, reiterating that the strategic waterway would soon come under American domain. These recurring statements have drawn significant international attention.
Historical Dispute Between Washington and Tehran
The control over the Strait of Hormuz has long been a major bone of contention between the U.S. and Iran. The Trump administration maintained that Tehran must reopen the passage, whereas Iran asserted that the strait remains under its absolute control and that events in the region will unfold as it dictates. Following these latest claims by Trump, Iran strongly criticized the statements and issued warnings of severe consequences.
Tehran Stance and Conditions
Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran Supreme National Security Council, stated that Tehran will not reopen the strait until the U.S. fulfills its commitments and alters its behavior. According to statements attributed to Rezaei, the Strait of Hormuz is closed and will not reopen unless Washington changes its conduct and honors its obligations, emphasizing that the situation requires concrete action from the U.S. rather than mere talks and negotiations.
Impact on Global Oil Trade and Maritime Traffic
Prior to the war, a fifth of the world traded oil passed through this vital maritime route. However, since the outbreak of hostilities with Iran, the strait has remained largely closed to other traffic due to attacks on vessels. Iran demands that the U.S. lift the blockade, pay compensation for war damages, remove economic sanctions, and release frozen Iranian assets. Trump latest announcement has now raised strong prospects of renewed conflict in the Middle East.
