Trump posts AI image of himself seizing Iranian-flagged tanker — as tension escalates in Strait of Hormuz

President Trump posted an AI image of himself helping seize an Iranian-flagged tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on Truth Social, in another online escalation as a US ally said Iran fired on another commercial vessel. “It’s Our Oil Tanker Now!” Trump posted Friday night, hours after declaring on Long Island that “Pretty soon, I will be declaring the Hormuz Strait a territory of the United States. ” Donald Trump posted an AI image of himself seizing an Iranian oil tanker after claiming he would declare the Strait of Hormuz a US territory. AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson The AI-generated image shows Trump holding the American flag while accompanying two heavily armed troops. An Iranian flag sits on the deck of the captured vessel, while a US aircraft carrier looms in the background. Explore More Iran’s top commander boasts that war efforts prove Islam can ‘rule the world’ DeSantis’ replacement, DSA push, ethics scandals and redistricting shakeout: What to watch in Florida’s primary election New York’s literacy crisis: Letters to the Editor — Aug. 15, 2026 Trump issued the post during a period of escalating rhetoric about the strait. Iran says it has reached an agreement with Oman on control of the critical waterway, which the US is demanding remain free and open. Donald Trump’s AI image that he posted on Truth Social. Truth Social/realDonaldTrump “This strait will only be opened and closed under Iran’s command, and as long as you do not accept the reality of defeat and stop indulging in delusions, Iran will continue to enforce the blockade,” Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi posted on X Saturday. The United Arab Emirates said Saturday that Iran had attacked another Abu Dhabi National Oil Company vessel transiting the strait, the third attack in a week.