WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump says the United States could declare the Strait of Hormuz American territory after defeating Iran.
Trump made the remarks during a speech in Garden City. He also defended higher gasoline prices linked to the conflict with Iran.
The US president said stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon was necessary. He urged Americans to accept slightly higher fuel costs as part of that effort.
Trump Defends Higher Gasoline Prices
Trump said Americans may have to pay more for gasoline.
He described the higher fuel cost as part of the price of preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
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The president called Iran a “very evil country” and defended US military action against Tehran.
Trump also said he would not apologize for attacking Iran.
According to Trump, US actions against Iran serve the interests of the wider world as well as the United States.
Trump Makes Strait of Hormuz Claim
Trump also made a major statement about the Strait of Hormuz.
He said the United States would declare the strategic waterway a US territory after defeating Iran.
However, Trump did not provide details about how such a move could happen.
It also remained unclear whether his statement represented a new US policy or was rhetorical.
Strait of Hormuz Is Vital to Global Energy
The Strait of Hormuz is a major route for global energy supplies.
Around 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments normally pass through the waterway.
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Any prolonged disruption could therefore affect energy markets around the world.
The possibility of disruption has already pushed oil prices higher.
Oil and Gasoline Prices Rise
Brent crude oil moved close to $90 a barrel during the week.
US gasoline prices also rose to around $4 per gallon.
Higher fuel prices could create a political challenge for Trump. Lower energy costs have been an important part of his political agenda.
The increase could also affect American households and businesses.
Iran Conflict Creates Political Pressure
The economic impact of the Iran conflict could become a major political issue in the United States.
Democrats are seeking to highlight the effect of the conflict on fuel prices ahead of the November midterm elections.
For Trump, rising gasoline prices could create tension with his promise to reduce energy costs.
Meanwhile, the Strait of Hormuz remains a major pressure point for global energy markets. Any extended disruption could have wider economic consequences.
