Trump is urging formation of an international naval coalition following Iran’s threats to close the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic waterway carries about 20% of global oil traffic, making any blockade a major threat to world energy supplies.
US president calls for international warships as Tehran vows to block critical oil shipping route during escalating tensions.
President Trump announced Monday that “many countries” have agreed to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. Iran had just threatened to close the vital waterway to “tankers and ships of enemies” during ongoing military tensions. A potential naval standoff threatens one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints. Roughly 20% of global petroleum passes through here daily.
Trump made his announcement during a White House press briefing. He said several allied nations had committed naval vessels to ensure free passage through the strategic waterway. But the president didn’t specify which countries had agreed to participate — and he wouldn’t provide a timeline for deployment. Still, he emphasized that protecting international shipping lanes remained a top priority.
Daily traffic through the Strait of Hormuz includes approximately 21 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products. The narrow passage serves as the primary maritime route between Middle Eastern oil producers and global markets. At its narrowest point, it’s just 21 miles wide. Any disruption could trigger immediate spikes in global energy prices and potentially push the world economy toward recession.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard commanders issued the blockade threat following heightened tensions over disputed territorial waters and sanctions enforcement. They’ve made similar threats before — during the 1980s “Tanker War” with Iraq, Iran repeatedly threatened to close the strait. Just hours after Iran’s latest announcement, oil prices surged 4% on international markets. Brent crude reached $78 per barrel in early trading.
Economic analysts warn that a prolonged closure could remove nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies from circulation. Prices could hit $100 per barrel within days. As tensions continue to escalate, military deployments in the Middle East are becoming increasingly critical to maintaining regional stability.
Source: Original Report