Politics

Trump's Hormuz Territory Claim: 1953-2026 Timeline

Donald Trump said on 12 August 2026 the US has "total control" of the Strait of Hormuz, then posted an AI-generated map on 18 August labelling it "New US Terri…

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THE LONG SHADOW

1953 Coup Fuses Oil and Distrust

A CIA- and MI6-backed coup removes Iran's elected prime minister Mohammad Mossadegh after he nationalised Anglo-Iranian Oil. It is the root of the distrust every later H…

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THE RUPTURE

Islamic Revolution and Hostage Crisis

The Shah falls, the Islamic Republic is founded, and militants hold 52 Americans hostage for 444 days. The US and Iran sever diplomatic relations in 1980 and have not re…

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NAVAL FLASHPOINT

Operation Praying Mantis

After Iran mines the USS Samuel B. Roberts, the US Navy destroys Iranian oil platforms and vessels in its largest surface engagement since World War II, at the climax of…

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MAXIMUM PRESSURE

US Withdraws From the Nuclear Deal

Trump withdraws the US from the JCPOA and reimposes sanctions on Iranian oil exports, most of which move through Hormuz, prompting renewed Iranian threats to disrupt the…

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THE WAR BEGINS

Operation Epic Fury Opens the 2026 Crisis

The US and Israel strike Iranian military and nuclear targets on 28 February 2026, reportedly killing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran restricts Hormuz shipping within…

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GUARDIAN OF HORMUZ

Trump Proposes a 20% Toll, IMO Objects

On 13 July 2026 Trump says the US will be 'guardian' of the strait, proposing a 20% toll on cargo in exchange for protection and reimposing a naval blockade of Iranian p…

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TOTAL CONTROL

Trump Claims 'Total Control' of the Strait

Trump says the US has 'total control' over Hormuz and might 'keep it,' calling the naval blockade a 'wall of steel.' Iran rejects the claim; shipping data shows traffic…

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GASOLINE POLITICS

Trump Tells Americans to Accept Higher Gas Prices

Trump tells Americans to accept 'a tiny little bit more' for gasoline as the cost of pressuring Iran. US gas hits about $4.08/gallon, up 29% year-on-year, as Brent crude…

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THE AI MAP

Trump Posts AI Map: 'New US Territory'

Trump posts an AI-generated map on Truth Social labelling the Strait of Hormuz 'New US Territory,' a day after threatening to bomb Oman. Iran's deputy foreign minister r…

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