Trump Shares Map Calling Strait of Hormuz ‘New US Territory’ As Iran Keeps Waterway Shut

Trump’s latest map post has intensified the Strait of Hormuz crisis as Iran refuses to reopen the vital waterway. Here’s why the strategic route has become the centre of US-Iran tensions.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht
Updated : 19 August 2026, 8:16 AM IST
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New Delhi: US President Donald Trump has sparked fresh controversy by sharing a map on his social media platform that labels the strategic Strait of Hormuz as a “new US territory.” The post came amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran over control and navigation rights in the crucial maritime route.

Trump shared the map on his Truth Social account on Tuesday but did not provide any explanation or additional comments. The move comes days after he suggested that the United States could declare the Strait of Hormuz a US territory.

Iran refuses to reopen Strait of Hormuz

Meanwhile, Iran has made it clear that the waterway will remain closed to maritime traffic until its demands under a 14-point Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United States are fulfilled.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said the Strait would not be reopened until Washington meets commitments including lifting sanctions, releasing frozen assets, ending military operations and removing what Tehran described as restrictions against Iran.

Ghalibaf warned that Iran was prepared to respond strongly to any further escalation while defending the country’s security interests.

Vessel attack raises maritime concerns

The latest developments follow an incident involving a commercial vessel travelling through the Strait of Hormuz. According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), the ship was hit by an unidentified projectile, damaging its engine room and injuring one crew member.

The incident has increased concerns over the safety of commercial shipping in the region.

Global energy route at the centre of crisis

The Strait of Hormuz remains a key strategic waterway for international trade and energy transportation. Any prolonged disruption could impact global oil markets and increase concerns over supply stability.

The standoff between the US and Iran continues as diplomatic negotiations remain unresolved, with both sides maintaining opposing positions over sanctions, military presence and regional security.

Location :  Washington

Published :  19 August 2026, 8:16 AM IST

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