Trump Claims Hormuz as 'New US Territory' and Rules Out Iran Talks

In mid-August 2026, US President Donald Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz a 'new US territory' and said there are no ongoing talks with Iran, contradicting earlier hints that negotiations were possible. The move escalates tensions in the region, where Iran claims control over the strait and some ships are already rerouting via Omani waters.

Meanwhile, Iran denied launching ballistic missiles at the UAE, although the UAE reported detecting two missiles that it said came from Iran. In a separate development, Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi and Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf met with Iraqi officials, who thanked Iran for its support during the Arbaeen pilgrimage.