Strait of Hormuz ship traffic has declined as tensions between the US and Iran escalate, with President Donald Trump announcing plans to declare the strategic waterway a US territory. The move comes amid heightened concerns over regional security and economic pressure on Iran. Trump made the claim during a rally in Long Island, New York, asserting that the strait would become "a territory of the United States" following what he described as a victory over Iran.
The US Treasury chief has also hinted at new economic measures against Iran, stating they are "never been seen." These measures could include sanctions or other financial restrictions aimed at curbing Iran's influence in the region. Meanwhile, Iran's representative, Gharibabadi, dismissed Trump's remarks as irrelevant, calling the strait "cannot be seized by tweet."
Ship traffic through the strait has already slowed, with reports indicating a significant drop compared to pre-war levels. Analysts suggest this decline reflects both the ongoing conflict and the broader geopolitical tensions affecting maritime movement. The situation remains fluid, with both sides continuing to assert control over the vital waterway.
The declaration of Hormuz as US territory has not yet been formalized, and its legal and practical implications remain unclear. As tensions persist, the strait remains a focal point of international attention and strategic interest.
