Trump Declares Intent to Claim Strait of Hormuz as U.S. Territory
President Trump stated his intention to declare the Strait of Hormuz a United States territory during remarks on Long Island, New York. This claim was made despite the waterway being under the shared jurisdiction of Oman and Iran.
Fort Myers Naples, FL, August 14, 2026 —
President Donald Trump announced his intention to declare the Strait of Hormuz a United States territory during recent remarks on Long Island, New York. The declaration would represent a significant shift in international maritime law and geopolitical positioning in the strategically vital waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, is currently under the shared jurisdiction of Oman and Iran. International maritime law designates such straits as international waters, allowing for freedom of navigation for all nations. A U.S. claim to territorial status would challenge this established framework.
The President’s statement was made in Long Island, New York. Details regarding the specific legal basis for this intended declaration or the timeline for its potential implementation were not provided. The implications of such a claim on international relations, trade, and maritime security are significant and have yet to be fully elaborated upon.
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the open ocean. Its strategic importance lies in its role as a passage for a substantial portion of the world’s crude oil supply. Control or significant influence over this waterway has long been a key concern for global powers.
Further information regarding the U.S. government’s plans to assert territorial claims over the Strait of Hormuz and the potential responses from regional and international actors is anticipated.
Story summarized from the original created by Julia Manchester on thehill.com, see more information here.
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