Trump warns NATO, presses China to help reopen Strait of Hormuz
Donald Trump has warned Western allies of serious consequences if they fail to help reopen the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime corridor through which a significant share of global oil exports passes.
In remarks reported by the Financial Times, the US president said countries benefiting from energy shipments through the strait should contribute military resources to ensure the waterway remains open amid escalating tensions with Iran.
Trump also suggested he could postpone a planned summit with Xi Jinping until he receives clarity on Beijing’s position regarding the crisis.
The US leader urged members of NATO and other major economies to deploy naval forces to protect commercial shipping in the region.
According to Trump, countries such as China, France, Japan, South Korea and United Kingdom should send warships or specialised vessels, including minesweepers, to counter threats from drones and naval mines.
Trump argued that nations heavily dependent on oil shipments through the strait have a responsibility to help maintain security in the region.
Meanwhile, negotiations between the United States and China continued in Paris, where US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng met to discuss trade issues and preparations for a potential Trump visit to Beijing.
The crisis follows US and Israeli strikes on Iran earlier this month, after which Tehran effectively restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump warned that Washington could escalate military action if necessary, including potential strikes on Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export terminal.
About one-fifth of the world’s crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments normally pass through the narrow waterway, making it one of the most strategically important energy corridors in the world.
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