U.S. President Donald Trump has provoked controversy by suggesting that countries struggling with fuel shortages as a result of disruptions at the Strait of Hormuz should either buy more oil from the United States or “go to the Strait and just take it.”
The comments came in a Truth Social post on Tuesday as the average retail price of gasoline in the United States climbed past $4 per gallon for the first time in over three years, driven by global supply constraints tied to the conflict in the Middle East.
Trump specifically criticised U.S. allies, including the United Kingdom and France, for what he described as their failure to participate in military pressure against Iran. He said they must “build up some delayed courage” and assert control over their own energy access.
“I have a suggestion for you: Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” Trump wrote.
“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself… the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us.”
Iran’s effective control of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply is transported, has sharply restricted tanker traffic, contributing to rising global energy prices and prompting conservation measures in many countries.
Trump has also made clear in recent weeks that his preference would be to secure oil resources directly, a stance that has drawn both support and criticism amid the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
