Rising tensions with Iran spark talk of an international naval effort to secure one of the world’s most critical oil routes.
WASHINGTON: Donald Trump said Saturday that multiple countries may deploy warships to help safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil transit routes, as tensions with Iran continue to escalate.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump claimed that nations heavily dependent on energy shipments through the narrow waterway would likely join the United States in protecting maritime traffic. He mentioned possible participation from China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, though he did not confirm whether any had formally agreed.
The strait, located between Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, handles a significant share of global oil shipments. Any disruption could impact international trade and energy markets.
Trump warned that the United States could take “strong military action” if efforts to keep the shipping lane open are challenged. He said U.S. forces may continue targeting Iranian vessels and conduct strikes along coastal areas if necessary.
The White House did not immediately confirm whether allied countries had committed naval forces.
Meanwhile, Iran’s newly named supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, said Tehran intends to keep the strait closed as a way to pressure Washington, calling the move a strategic tool amid growing tensions.
Analysts say multinational naval cooperation could be crucial to ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels in the increasingly volatile region.
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