Iran has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump's recent statement about declaring the Strait of Hormuz as US territory, reaffirming its sovereignty over the vital waterway.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi emphasized on social media that "The Strait of Hormuz has been Iranian, is Iranian, and will remain Iranian," adding that the strait's closure and reopening are exclusively under Iran's authority.
Trump made the controversial remark during a political rally in New York, asserting that following a US victory over Iran, he would soon declare the strait US territory. A White House official later described the comment as a joke.
Continued Conflict and Blockades
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for global oil and liquefied natural gas exports, has been effectively closed by Tehran since the escalation of conflict in the Middle East earlier this year. Iran's blockade has heightened tensions, impacting global energy markets and regional security.
Recent attacks on vessels linked to the United Arab Emirates' state oil company ADNOC, which the UAE attributes to Iran, underscore the ongoing risks to maritime traffic. These incidents contributed to the breakdown of a ceasefire agreement between the US and Iran in April.
Meanwhile, Iran's allied Houthi forces in Yemen have imposed a maritime blockade on Saudi ports along the Red Sea, further complicating regional trade routes.
Diplomatic Stalemate and Economic Impact
Diplomatic efforts remain stalled. An Iranian official outlined conditions for reopening the strait, including ending hostilities against Iran and its allies, lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, and receiving compensation for damages.
A June agreement between Washington and Tehran envisioned future discussions involving Iran, Oman, and Gulf states to manage the strait in accordance with international law. Iran has also indicated progress with Oman on establishing a joint transit route.
US Vice President JD Vance recently stated that the primary US objective in the conflict is to keep energy prices low for Americans, highlighting the economic stakes amid the ongoing dispute.
Trump reiterated US control over the blockade, stating, "No ships get through unless we want them to," reflecting the heightened geopolitical struggle over this crucial maritime chokepoint.
