Trump tells oil-dependent nations: Buy from US or protect Hormuz yourselves

Washington — Donald Trump urged countries dependent on Middle East oil to take responsibility for securing the Strait of Hormuz, blaming Iran for disruptions that have pushed up global fuel prices.

In a televised address, Trump said recent gasoline price increases were “entirely” due to Iranian attacks on commercial oil tankers and neighbouring countries, warning that such actions threatened global energy supplies. He reiterated Washington’s hard line on Tehran, saying the developments showed Iran “can never be trusted with nuclear weapons.”

The US President stressed that America would not shoulder the burden of safeguarding shipping lanes alone. He argued that nations reliant on oil transported through the narrow waterway should “take care of that passage” themselves. Trump also suggested two options: buy more oil from the United States or build up the “courage” to secure the route independently.

Trump maintained that disruptions to the strait would be temporary and linked to the ongoing conflict, adding that the waterway would reopen naturally once tensions ease. He also highlighted strong domestic energy production, claiming the US no longer depends on Middle Eastern oil and imports almost none through Hormuz.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the region, with attacks on tankers and infrastructure raising fears over supply disruptions. The strait remains a critical chokepoint for global energy flows, and instability there can quickly impact oil prices and markets worldwide.

Countries heavily reliant on Gulf crude — including India — remain particularly vulnerable to volatility in the passage. Any prolonged disruption could affect inflation, trade balances, and energy security across importing nations.

With inputs from IANS