President Donald Trump told a crowd of law‑enforcement officers on Long Island that, after the United States “defeats” Iran, he will declare the Strait of Hormuz a U.S. territory. He framed the move as a continuation of the current naval blockade, saying no ships would pass unless the United States allowed them.
The strait, a narrow channel through which a large share of global oil shipments normally flow, has been choked off since the war with Iran began earlier this year. Its closure has become a focal point in ongoing peace talks, with both sides using the passage as leverage. During the same address, Trump urged attendees to accept higher gasoline prices, arguing the extra cost would help deny Iran the resources needed for a nuclear weapons program.
No legal pathway has been outlined for such a territorial claim, and analysts note the proclamation could complicate diplomatic negotiations and provoke regional backlash. Observers will be watching for any formal policy steps from the administration and reactions from Iran, allied nations, and the international community.
