Trump calls on countries to enter Strait of Hormuz and “take it” amid fuel disruption

U.S. President Donald Trump said countries affected by disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz should move to secure access themselves, arguing that the United States would no longer step in to help nations that, in his view, did not support Washington during its coordinated strikes on Iran.

In remarks shown in a screenshot of a Reuters-bylined report, Trump said countries unable to get jet fuel should buy American oil and then go to the strategic waterway and “just TAKE IT.” He singled out the United Kingdom as an example of a country he said had refused to get involved in U.S. action against Iran.

The comments point to a sharper, more confrontational U.S. tone around one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital route for global oil shipments, and any threat to passage there can quickly send shockwaves through fuel markets, shipping lanes and diplomatic relations across the Middle East and beyond.

Trump also suggested that U.S. military backing would not be available to partners that failed to support American operations. In the statement shown, he said those countries would have to begin learning how to fight for themselves and secure their own oil supplies.

The remarks are likely to raise alarm among allies and energy-importing nations already watching the region closely. Any suggestion that outside countries should try to forcibly assert access in or around the strait risks escalating tensions further and could deepen concerns over maritime security.

The statement also underscores the potential fallout from U.S. strikes on Iran, with access to fuel and shipping routes emerging as a major pressure point. Governments dependent on stable Gulf energy flows may now face renewed questions over how far they are prepared to go to protect supply lines if the crisis worsens.

Analysts would be expected to watch closely for responses from Britain, Gulf states and major oil-consuming economies, as well as any market reaction tied to fears of broader confrontation in the region.