U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he intends to declare the Strait of Hormuz a territory of the United States in the near future. He made this statement during a speech at a political rally at the police academy in New York state. > "When we finish defeating Iran, very soon I will declare the Strait of Hormuz a territory of the United States," said the American leader. The statement came against the backdrop of the ongoing armed conflict between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Following the outbreak of war in late February, Iran took control of most of the Strait of Hormuz and significantly restricted the passage of civilian vessels. In response, the U.S. imposed a maritime blockade on Iranian ports, attempting to increase economic pressure on Tehran. The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the key maritime routes for global trade, through which a significant portion of the world's oil supplies passes. Any statements regarding its status immediately attract the attention of energy markets and can affect fuel prices. During his speech, Trump also emphasized that U.S. forces effectively control the situation in the area of the strait. > "We have a blockade. No ship will pass unless we want it to," stated the U.S. president. It remains unclear whether this refers to a real political plan by the U.S. administration or if the statement was purely political in nature. No official decisions regarding any change in the international status of the Strait of Hormuz have been announced.
