Middle East live: Trump threatens US takeover of Hormuz as Iran vows to retain control

Europe World Sun, 16 Aug 2026 09:49:21 GMT High confidence — 81/100

Home Middle East Live Middle East Issued on: 15/08/2026 - 07:12 By: / Cargo ships and other commercial vessels pass through the Strait of Hormuz in Iran.
© Amirhosein Khorgooi, AP US President Donald Trump threatened to declare the Strait of Hormuz US territory after vowing to “finish defeating” Iran in a New York rally on Friday.
Tehran rejected the claim on Saturday, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi saying the strategic waterway “will remain Iranian” and can be opened or closed only at Iran’s command.

Home Middle East Live Middle East Issued on: 15/08/2026 - 07:12 By: / Cargo ships and other commercial vessels pass through the Strait of Hormuz in Iran.
© Amirhosein Khorgooi, AP US President Donald Trump threatened to declare the Strait of Hormuz US territory after vowing to “finish defeating” Iran in a New York rally on Friday.
Tehran rejected the claim on Saturday, with Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi saying the strategic waterway “will remain Iranian” and can be opened or closed only at Iran’s command.

Sources: The Hill, France 24