US President Donald Trump has intensified tensions with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz. Trump posted a map on Truth Social that labelled the strategic waterway as “new US territory”. He also claimed that the US has “total control” over the strait.
Trump has repeatedly suggested declaring the Strait of Hormuz a US territory. The remarks have added a new dimension to the ongoing dispute over navigation and control of the key maritime route.
Iran, however, says the waterway will remain closed until Washington fulfils commitments linked to an interim agreement. Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Tehran wants the US naval blockade lifted, oil sanctions removed and Iranian assets unfrozen.
The standoff escalated further after an unknown projectile struck a vessel travelling through the strait on Tuesday. The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency said the incident damaged the engine room and left one crew member injured.
A crucial conduit for the transportation of energy around the world is the Strait of Hormuz. Any prolonged disruption could affect oil supplies and international markets.