Iran Rejects Trump Claim on Strait of Hormuz, Vows Blockade

Iran rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim that Washington has full control over the Strait of Hormuz and would even claim it as U.S. territory. Basij commander Hossein Taeb said the strait remains under the management and control of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Khatam Al Anbiya Central Headquarters also said no ship can pass through the Strait of Hormuz without Tehran’s permission. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi then said Iran is not afraid of U.S. threats and that the strait will only be opened or closed under Iran’s authority. Trump, meanwhile, said in a speech in Nassau County, New York, that he would declare the Strait of Hormuz as U.S. territory after Iran is defeated.