Trump calls the Strait of Hormuz 'American territory' at South Carolina rally
Trump said he views the Strait of Hormuz as American territory while U.S. naval pressure on Iran continues; comments were made at a South Carolina campaign rally.
U.S. President Donald Trump told a campaign rally in South Carolina that he regards the Strait of Hormuz as American territory, comments delivered as the United States continues a naval blockade affecting Iranian ports and shipping.
Speaking at an event in support of Darlene Graham, who is running for the seat of her late brother Lindsey Graham, Trump said he presently views the strait as American territory and added that his administration still does not know whether it has "won" the confrontation. He also joked that it was Friday night and they had plenty of time.
Context and consequences
The remarks come amid ongoing U.S. military pressure on Iranian maritime access and broader difficulties inside the administration over ending the conflict with Iran. Analysts say such statements risk escalating tensions in a strategically vital waterway through which a large share of global oil shipments pass.
Officials have in recent weeks described intensified U.S. operations to interdict shipments to and from Iranian ports. Trump’s characterization of the strait as "American territory" marks a rhetorical escalation that could complicate diplomatic options and draw criticism from international partners.
At the rally, the comments were framed as part of a campaign appearance; Trump used the platform to underscore a hardline posture toward Tehran while supporting a local candidate, linking foreign-policy bravado to domestic politics.
Photo: Iks)
