US President
Donald Trump is preparing to announce the formation of an international coalition to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz as tensions with Iran escalate.
US officials told the Wall Street Journal that the White House’s announcement could come as soon as this week. It is not yet clear whether the escort missions will begin before a possible agreement between the Trump administration and Iran ends the ongoing conflict, which has claimed the life of Iran’s supreme leader, caused thousands of Iranian casualties, and resulted in the deaths of 13 US service members.
Members of the administration have said the US Navy will support commercial vessels navigating the strait, a strategic waterway off Iran’s coast. Iran has restricted passage using sea mines and small vessels, a move that has put pressure on oil markets. Approximately 20 percent of the world’s daily oil supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
In an earlier post on Saturday, Trump called on other nations to help, saying, "Many Countries, especially those who are affected by Iran’s attempted closure of the Hormuz Strait, will be sending War Ships, in conjunction with the United States of America, to keep the Strait open and safe." He added that he hoped China, France, Japan, South Korea, Britain, and others would send ships to the area.
His appeal to nations, however, brought no commitments.
Later on Saturday, Trump posted again, urging, "The countries of the World that receive Oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage, and we will help — A LOT!" He added, "The US will also coordinate with those Countries so that everything goes quickly, smoothly, and well."
Since US operations began two weeks ago, global oil prices have surpassed $100 per barrel, and US gas prices have risen by more than 70 cents per gallon. Republicans in Congress have urged the White House to act to prevent a short-term economic shock at the start of an election year.
Despite these pressures, Trump and some party members have resisted calls to end the war quickly, aiming to avoid longer-lasting supply issues.
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