US President Donald Trump says he will “soon” declare the Strait of Hormuz a territory of the United States, linking the claim to his administration’s effort to end the war with Iran. He made the remarks during a speech at a police academy in Garden City/Long Island, New York, and referenced “defeating Iran” before the alleged designation.
Multiple outlets report that the statement is presented as a threat or escalation of rhetoric, but it is unclear how seriously Trump intends it or whether it reflects a concrete change in policy. The Guardian notes the uncertainty and describes the Strait of Hormuz as a key global chokepoint for shipping and oil. The Hill adds that legal or practical issues remain, including that Oman and Iran share jurisdiction over the waterway. Other outlets broadly repeat Trump’s “pretty soon” timeline and his assertion that “it’s true,” without detailing any follow-up steps or official US actions.
