Iran Says Only Tehran Has Authority to Open or Close Strait of Hormuz
TEHRAN: Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has strongly rejected US President Donald Trump’s remarks about declaring the Strait of Hormuz American territory.
Gharibabadi said Iran alone has the authority to decide whether the strategic waterway is opened or closed, adding that Tehran is not intimidated by US threats or displays of military power.
His remarks came after President Donald Trump said he would soon announce that the Strait of Hormuz would be declared US territory.
Speaking to Fox News, Trump had also said that the United States was preparing to increase economic pressure on Iran to force Tehran to end the war.
The exchange has further intensified tensions over the strategically important waterway, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes.
