President Donald Trump (R-FL) suggested the United States could declare the Strait of Hormuz a U.S. territory [1, 2].
The proposal targets one of the world's most critical oil transit routes. Any shift in the legal status of the waterway could drastically alter international maritime law, and escalate tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Trump made the comments on Friday, June 23, 2026, as a means to increase pressure on Iran [1]. The administration's focus follows ongoing attacks on commercial shipping in the narrow waterway located between Oman and Iran [1, 2].
"I will make the Strait of Hormuz a US territory pretty soon," Trump said [1]. In another statement, he said, "We could declare the Strait of Hormuz as US territory" [2].
The rhetoric comes at a time of significant economic volatility. Oil prices were above $100 per barrel while the discussion was ongoing [3].
However, the nature of the administration's strategy remains a point of contention among reports. While some outlets highlighted the territorial claim, others reported that the plan focused on guiding ships safely through the strait rather than claiming sovereignty [4]. Other reports suggested the U.S. reinstated a blockade and moved away from a plan to charge tolls [5].
Critics and legal experts have questioned the feasibility of the proposal. One analyst said that designating the strait as U.S. territory would be unprecedented and likely illegal [4].
Further contradictions exist regarding the burden of security in the region. Some reports indicated that Trump was shifting the responsibility for the Strait of Hormuz to Europe [6].
“"I will make the Strait of Hormuz a US territory pretty soon."”
The Strait of Hormuz is the world's most important oil chokepoint. Any attempt to claim it as U.S. territory would violate international law and the sovereignty of bordering nations, likely triggering a severe diplomatic and military crisis with Iran. The conflicting reports on whether the U.S. intends to claim territory, charge tolls, or provide escorts suggest a fluctuating strategy to maintain energy price stability.
