U.S. President Donald Trump has said the United States is prepared to use its navy to safeguard shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, amid rising tensions with Iran.
Posting on his platform Truth Social on Tuesday, Trump stated that if necessary, the U.S. Navy would begin escorting oil tankers through the vital waterway “as soon as possible” to ensure the free flow of energy worldwide.
He also directed the United States International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide risk insurance and guarantees for maritime trade in the region. While primarily aimed at protecting energy shipments, the coverage would be available to all shipping companies operating in the area.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. It serves as the only sea passage from the Persian Gulf to the open ocean, with major oil producers — including Iran, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates — relying on it for exports.
Escalating conflict and threats against vessels transiting the strait have unsettled global energy markets, leading to significant increases in oil and gas prices.