Trump says he will declare Strait of Hormuz a US ‘territory’ amid Iran war

Key Points:

• US President Donald Trump announced plans to declare the Strait of Hormuz a US territory amid ongoing tensions and conflict with Iran, describing the US blockade of the strait as "unstoppable" and a service to the world.
• The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for about 20% of global oil supply, has become a major point of contention since the US and Israel began hostilities against Iran in February, with Iran restricting traffic and the US enforcing a blockade.
• Despite a June memorandum of understanding aimed at halting military operations and ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels, both sides have accused each other of violations, and fighting has resumed.
• Iran firmly rejected Trump's declaration, asserting that the strait cannot be taken over by US threats or declarations, emphasizing its control over the territorial waters in the region.
• Trump's remarks come amid domestic political efforts ahead of the 2026 midterm elections and follow suggestions of further economic sanctions against Iran, while legal experts note that imposing tolls on commercial traffic through the strait would violate international law.