Iranian diplomats have issued a bold response to US President Donald Trump’s recent comments regarding the Hormuz Strait by posting a map that identifies California as part of Iranian territory. This satirical move follows Trump’s assertion that the Hormuz Strait, a vital maritime chokepoint, could be declared as new US territory.

The Hormuz Strait connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, and at its narrowest point, it spans approximately 33 kilometers, making it one of the most sensitive maritime routes globally. It serves as the sole maritime passage for oil exports from several countries, including Kuwait, Iraq, Bahrain, Qatar, and a significant portion of Saudi Arabia and UAE’s exports.

In a social media post on Truth Social, Trump had previously shared a map of the Hormuz Strait with the caption “New Territory of the United States.” Although the post lacked detailed commentary, Trump had indicated on August 14 that he would soon declare the strait as US territory following the defeat of Iran.

The Iranian Consulate in Hyderabad, India, shared the map highlighting California with the phrase “New Territory of the Islamic Republic of Iran.” This gesture is particularly noteworthy as California is home to the largest Iranian immigrant community in the United States, with many residents in Los Angeles referring to the city as “Tehrangeles.”

Iran has maintained a firm stance regarding the Hormuz Strait, asserting that it will remain under Tehran’s control despite Trump’s claims. Iranian officials, including Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi, emphasized that the strait will continue to operate under Iran’s authority and called for the US to abandon its “illusions.”

Moreover, Iran’s Army Commander, Major General Amir Hatami, stated that the US has no right to navigate through the Hormuz Strait or access the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. He reiterated that the strategic waterway is a geopolitical advantage for Iran, and its status will not revert to previous conditions.

In the ongoing discussions between Iran and Oman regarding the future of navigation through the Hormuz Strait, Tehran has indicated that both sides have agreed on maritime coordinates, although this consensus does not involve any agreements with the US.

The Iranian Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, further asserted that the Hormuz Strait will remain closed until the US fulfills all conditions outlined in a temporary agreement with Iran, which includes lifting maritime blockades, removing sanctions, unfreezing Iranian assets, and ceasing military actions in the region.