On Aug. 16 Iran’s armed forces chief Hatami warned that U.S. President Trump’s recent claim that Washington would declare the Strait of Hormuz U.S. territory after “defeating Iran” would be “a huge mistake,” even if uttered as a joke. Hatami added: “This is Iran — the defenders will break the invaders’ legs.”

2026-08-17

On Aug. 16 Iran’s armed forces chief Hatami warned that U.S. President Trump’s recent claim that Washington would declare the Strait of Hormuz U.S. territory after “defeating Iran” would be “a huge mistake,” even if uttered as a joke. Hatami added: “This is Iran — the defenders will break the invaders’ legs.”