Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Donald Trump claimed that Iran has been “completely decimated” militarily and economically following recent US-Israeli strikes.
In a message posted on social media, Trump said the United States had defeated Iran “militarily, economically and in every other way.” However, he added that maintaining security in the Strait of Hormuz should not be the responsibility of the US alone.
The comments came as the war between the US-Israel alliance and Iran continues to escalate across the Gulf region.
Call for International Effort to Secure Oil Route
Trump urged countries that rely on oil transported through the Strait of Hormuz to contribute naval forces to secure the passage. He said the United States would support and coordinate the effort but expects other nations to take responsibility as well.
He expressed hope that nations such as China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom would send warships to help keep the route open for global trade.
According to Trump, securing the strait should be a “team effort” among countries that benefit from the shipping lane.
Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
Roughly 20% of the world’s oil and gas shipments pass through this narrow sea route, making it crucial for global energy markets.
Since the conflict escalated in late February, Iranian missile and drone attacks on ships and regional energy facilities have disrupted traffic through the waterway and pushed global oil prices sharply higher.
War Escalates After US-Israel Strikes on Iran
The current crisis began after the United States and Israel launched large-scale airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites in late February. Iran responded with missile attacks on US bases and regional targets, while also threatening to restrict shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.
Several ships have been damaged and maritime traffic through the strait has sharply declined due to security risks. The confrontation has raised fears of a broader regional war and a major global energy crisis.