US President Donald Trump has dubbed the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for Iranian-controlled oil transport, as the “Trump Strait”.
He quickly corrected himself saying his comment was a “mistake”. But Trump, who has renamed several buildings in Washington after himself during his second term, then added that “there are no accidents with me.”
The Strait of Hormuz was opened to international shipping before the conflict, but has since stopped, leading to a sharp rise in global energy prices.
Read also | Iran US War News: Trump unsure of date for Iran strike, says talks in December
Watch the ‘Trump Strait’ video here:
“We are negotiating now and it would be great if we could do something, but they have to open it up,” Trump said at the Saudi-backed FII Priority investment forum in Miami. “They have to open the Trump Strait – I mean the Strait of Hormuz. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. Such a terrible mistake.”
Trump said the media would pounce on the comment, but then added that “I don’t have any accidents, not too many.”
During a cabinet meeting, Trump said it was an “opportunity” to take control of Iran’s oil, as the United States effectively did with Venezuela.
He also talked about how, shortly after returning to power, he ordered the Gulf of Mexico be renamed the “Gulf of America.”
Trump made similar teasing comments before renaming Washington’s Kennedy Center for the Arts the “Trump-Kennedy Center.” The peace institute in Washington was also renamed after Trump last year.
Read also | Musk Joins Modi-Trump Challenge on Israel-US-Iran Conflict – Report
Here’s how social media users reacted:
The internet got a good laugh out of Trump’s comments, but opinions were divided.
MAGA supporters called it a “power move” and said, “Classic Trump turns a slip into a power move. ‘No accidents with me!’ It signals strength: Iran must reopen the strait or face real pressure. Freudian or strategic branding? Either way, the world knows who’s calling the shots now. Energy flows matter and he is not backing down.”
The “Trump strait” casually coming out of his own mouth during a live press conference is the most perfect brand misstep in political history. At least he caught himself, but you know a part of him hated that sound,” another user said.
“The people of Iran will happily change their name to TRUMP’S strait after the total collapse of the evil regime. A small gift for the gift of freedom,” the user claimed.
“I’m personally very much in favor of renaming the Strait of Hormuz to ‘Trump’ provided he gets rid of the mullah regime. I think it’s much better than the fake Persian name they gave it, which is supposed to be an Arabic name… but it’s better for Trump and in my opinion better than a Nobel prize,” another user added.
Read also | Trump delays strikes on Iranian power plants by 10 days
However, Trump critics shared some hilarious memes mocking the US president.
“He thinks he rules the world 😂 Soon he will be humbled!” said the user.
Another user claimed that the Strait of Hormuz will start collecting tolls if Trump takes over.
Local time on Friday, the 79-year-old US leader reiterated his claims that Tehran was ready to strike a deal despite its denials and said talks were underway to end the months-long conflict.
Trump added that Iran was “on the run” and repeated claims that Tehran’s leadership, navy, air force and nuclear program had suffered significant damage.
