Rabat – US President Donald Trump has urged several countries, including the UK, to deploy warships to the Strait of Hormuz to protect commercial shipping after a series of attacks on oil tankers in the area.
In posts on his platform Truth Social, Trump said nations that depend on energy shipments through the narrow waterway should help ensure that the passage remains open.
He mentioned China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK among the countries that could send naval vessels alongside the US.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most strategic maritime routes in the world.
Around 20% of global oil supply normally passes through the corridor that links the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman.
Disruptions since the start of the war between the US, Israel, and Iran have already pushed oil prices higher.
Trump claimed that Iran’s military capacity had suffered major damage during recent strikes but warned that Tehran could still target ships with drones, naval mines, or short-range missiles.
He said the US would continue military pressure along the Iranian coast until the route becomes secure.
Trump also warned that Washington could strike Iranian oil facilities on Kharg Island if Tehran interferes with vessels that attempt to cross the strait.
Iranian officials responded with their own warning, stating that energy infrastructure connected to companies that cooperate with the US could face retaliation if Kharg Island becomes a target.
In London, the Ministry of Defence said discussions with allies continue over possible steps to secure shipping in the region. Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces pressure at home to clarify whether Britain will expand its military role in the Gulf.
According to the UK Maritime Trade Operations, at least 16 vessels have reported attacks or incidents in and around the Strait of Hormuz since the war began at the end of February.
The situation has increased concern across global energy markets as governments assess the risk of further disruption to one of the world’s most critical oil corridors.
