Trump jokes about claiming Hormuz Strait; Iran asserts it will remain Iranian

On Friday, former President Donald J. Trump delivered remarks in New York that drew attention for their boldness. During a public event, he laughed and said, “Pretty soon I’ll be declaring the Hormuz Strait a territory of the United States.” The statement was made in a casual tone, yet it references a strategically critical waterway that sits between Oman and Iran and through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes.

The Hormuz Strait is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, with roughly 20 % of global oil traffic transiting its narrow channel. No sovereign nation currently claims the waterway as territory, and international law treats it as an international strait open to navigation by all states. Trump’s comment, therefore, appears to be a rhetorical flourish rather than a realistic policy proposal, and it has not been accompanied by any formal declaration or diplomatic action.

The remark adds to a series of statements by Trump that have sparked debate about U.S. foreign policy and its implications for regional stability. While no official response has been issued, the comment underscores the continuing tension over control and security of the Hormuz Strait, a focal point for global energy markets and international relations.