US President Donald Trump has stepped up his rhetoric over the Strait of Hormuz, fueling further controversy over Washington’s position on one of the world’s most important waterways.
On Saturday evening, Trump posted a map showing the Strait of Hormuz on his Truth Social platform, labeling it “New American Land” in a fresh indication of his desire to assert US sovereignty over the strategic waterway.
Trump Repeats Calls for Control of the Strait
The post came days after Trump made repeated statements about his desire to consider the Strait of Hormuz American territory.
On Friday evening, Trump said he “considers the Strait of Hormuz American land,” as tensions between Washington and Tehran continue to escalate.
The strait is one of the world’s most important routes for oil shipments, making any disruption to maritime traffic through it a major concern for global energy markets and the international economy.
New US Sanctions on Iran
Trump’s remarks came as his administration prepares to announce a new package of sanctions against Iran, with officials describing the measures as among the toughest economic actions Washington has imposed on Tehran.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said details of the new sanctions are expected to be announced Monday, adding that Washington aims to increase economic pressure on Iran.
Trump has also warned countries providing Iran with what he described as a “lifeline” that they could face economic consequences.
Shipping Disruptions Add to Tensions
The latest developments come as shipping through the Strait of Hormuz faces disruptions, alongside declining Iranian oil exports and mounting pressure on the country’s fuel market and economy.
The United States and Iran previously reached two ceasefire agreements, in April and June, aimed at restoring freedom of navigation through the strait and moving toward an end to the conflict, which has continued for around six months. Both agreements, however, quickly collapsed.
The latest developments point to continued tensions between Washington and Tehran, while the future of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the key issues surrounding the escalating confrontation between the two sides.