Escalating Trump posts map labeling Hormuz Strait ‘US territory’

US President Donald Trump posted a map on his Truth Social platform labeling the Strait of Hormuz as "US territory". This move was quickly criticized by a top Iranian diplomat. According to the Asia Times, the diplomat responded that Trump's labeling of the Persian Gulf was correct, implying that his claim over the Strait of Hormuz was an "illusion".

Trump also stated that there are no talks or conversations underway or scheduled with Iran. This contradicts a statement made by his envoy, Jared Kushner, who said that the US and Iran were having "very positive and active conversations". The New Straits Times reported that US sources said there had been positive discussions with the Iranians, but Trump had decided to wait and asked his team not to engage until Iran was ready to make a deal.

The Strait of Hormuz remains open and operating, with all water mines reportedly removed or detonated. However, tensions in the region remain high, with the United Arab Emirates accusing Iran of firing two ballistic missiles, which Iran denied. The UAE subsequently announced that it was halting all trade and commerce with Iran due to regional escalations.

Brief written by urgent.news from Asia Times, New Straits Times — 2 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.