**Title: Trump Declares Strait of Hormuz 'New US Territory' Amid Rising Tensions with Iran**
**Date: August 23, 2026**
In a bold assertion, former US President Donald Trump has once again claimed that the Strait of Hormuz is now considered American territory. This statement was made via a post on his Truth Social account, where he shared a map highlighting the strategic waterway with the caption "NEW US territory." This marks the second occasion within a week that Trump has made this declaration, which has raised eyebrows internationally and reignited discussions about US-Iran relations.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world's oil supply is transported. Trump's comments come at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and Iran, particularly following the announcement of new economic sanctions aimed at pressuring Tehran.
In response to Trump's claims, Mohsen Rezaei, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued a stern warning. He stated that Iran would consider any nation participating in the US-led economic campaign against it as an enemy. Rezaei emphasized that Iran would retaliate against countries that support the sanctions, stating, "Any country that participates in imposing economic restrictions against us is considered an enemy." He further warned that Iran has the capability to target American economic interests in the region if sanctions continue.
Rezaei's comments reflect Iran's increasing frustration with the US's approach to its foreign policy, particularly regarding economic sanctions. He noted that while Iran has so far limited its military actions to targeting US military bases, the situation could escalate if the US continues its economic pressure. "If Trump takes action, our response will be like an earthquake," he warned, indicating the potential for significant military or economic repercussions.
The US government, under the current administration, is reportedly preparing to unveil what has been described as "the toughest sanctions in history" against Iran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to hold a press conference to discuss these measures, which are anticipated to further isolate Iran economically. The US has been actively seeking international support for these sanctions, urging other nations, including China, to join in the effort to curb Iran's economic activities.
China, a key economic ally of Iran, has criticized the US's sanctions strategy, arguing that such measures will not effectively resolve the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. This stance has created a divide among nations regarding their approach to Iran, with some countries, like the United Arab Emirates, taking a firmer stance against Tehran. The UAE recently announced the suspension of all trade and financial transactions with Iran until further notice, signaling a significant shift in its economic relations with the neighboring country.
As tensions escalate, the international community watches closely, aware that the Strait of Hormuz remains a focal point for geopolitical conflict. The waterway is not only vital for oil transportation but also a strategic military zone, making any changes in its status or governance a matter of global concern.
In summary, Trump's declaration of the Strait of Hormuz as "new US territory" has intensified the already fraught relations between the US and Iran. With Iran's warnings of retaliation against nations supporting US sanctions and the impending announcement of severe economic measures by the US, the situation remains precarious. The coming days will be crucial in determining how these tensions will unfold and what implications they may have for regional stability and global oil markets.