Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Garibabadi said that Tehran alone has the power to decide whether the Strait of Hormuz will remain open, rejecting Trump’s statement that the Strait of Hormuz is US territory.
In a post on social media, he said, “Iran is not afraid of US threats or displays of military force. Any decision to open or close the strait will be made solely by Tehran.”
US President Donald Trump has warned that the Strait of Hormuz will soon be declared ‘US territory’. In response, Garibabadi said, ‘The Strait of Hormuz was Iran’s, is Iran’s and will remain Iran’s.’
He also commented that the US has failed to impose its will on the strait. Garibabadi said the waterway “will be opened and closed only at the behest of Iran.”
He added, “As long as you refuse to acknowledge the reality of your defeat and remain in delusion, Iran will maintain this blockade.”
In a speech at a police academy on Long Island, New York, on Friday, Trump said he would soon declare the Strait of Hormuz US territory.
