Kathmandu— United States President Donald Trump has suggested renaming the Strait of Hormuz as 'TRUMP STRAIT' amid ongoing conflict with Iran. Despite near-daily Iranian attacks on ships in the area, Trump asserts that the waterway is under US control. The suggestion came less than 24 hours after the US struck several targets in Iran, killing at least four people, including two children, during a wedding in Sirik.

Strait of Hormuz Under Control

Trump wrote on social media that since the Strait is under 'USA control,' it should be renamed to reflect his leadership. He added that renaming it would make it 'hotter than ever before.' Despite US claims, Iran maintains that the waterway remains closed and under its control. The fighting has pushed oil prices up by around 4 percent.

Impact on Oil Prices

Despite repeated assurances from US officials that millions of barrels of oil are transiting through the Strait daily, oil prices have not fallen in recent weeks. In the US, petrol prices have risen to $4.12 per gallon, up from less than $3 before the conflict began on February 28.

Conflict Continues

The conflict between the US and Iran entered its seventh month last week, contrary to Trump's initial promise of a quick six-week war. After Tuesday’s strikes, Iran retaliated by firing missiles at US bases in Bahrain, Jordan, and Iraq.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.