Former U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his controversial claim that the Strait of Hormuz is now American territory, posting a map of the region on his Truth Social account with the Strait circled and labeled “NEW U.S. TERRITORY.” This marks the second time in one week that Trump has shared the same image — a move that underscores his hardline stance toward Iran and reflects broader geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Iran Warns Against Participation in U.S. Economic Pressure Campaign
Mohsen Rezaei, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, issued a stark warning on Saturday, declaring that Tehran will regard any country participating in what it calls America’s “economic war” as an enemy. Speaking on state television, Rezaei stated: “Any country involved in implementing economic restrictions against us is considered an enemy.” He urged nations across the region and globally to refrain from joining U.S.-led sanctions, following Washington’s recent announcement of intensified economic measures targeting Iran.
Rezaei emphasized that Iran has so far refrained from striking U.S. economic interests directly, limiting its actions to military targets. However, he warned that if pressure continues, Tehran will target American oil and financial companies operating near and beyond Iran’s borders. “If Trump takes action, our response will be like an earthquake,” he concluded.
New Sanctions Expected Monday
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to hold a press conference at 2 p.m. local time (9 p.m. Greek time) on Monday, amid reports that Washington plans to unveil what officials are calling “the toughest sanctions in history” against Iran. The Biden administration has been urging allied governments — including China — to join efforts to isolate Iran economically.
Beijing, however, has publicly criticized the initiative, arguing that U.S. sanctions and pressure tactics will not resolve regional conflicts. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates — one of Iran’s most significant trade partners — announced on Tuesday that it has suspended “all commercial and financial transactions” with Iran pending further notice.