'We don't need oil; those needing it, protect Hormuz': Trump
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has said that his country doesn't rely on oil from the Strait of Hormuz, urging nations dependent on this vital shipping route to seize it. He said the US imports almost no oil through the Hormuz Strait and won't be taking any in the future. "We're in great shape for the future...And the countries...that do receive oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage....They must grab it and cherish it," Trump said.
Protection plea
Take charge of protecting oil supplies, Trump tells nations
According to Trump, he chose to threaten Iran over the Strait of Hormuz for many of the countries that refused to participate in the war. He stated that countries that rely on Hormuz fuel should take the lead in "protecting the oil," with help from the United States. The Hormuz Strait is a key shipping route for around 25% of global oil supplies, making it crucial for many economies worldwide.
Operation update
Hint at easing military operations against Iran
The US president also hinted at a possible easing of military operations against Iran. He said that once core strategic objectives are completed, the Strait of Hormuz will just open up naturally. He said the "hard part" of "decimating Iran" has been done, so the opening of the Strait should be "easy." "It'll just open up naturally. They're going to want to be able to sell oil because that's all they have to try and rebuild," Trump said.
Trade prospects
US getting 'very close' to finishing its objectives in Iran
Trump said the US was getting "very close" to finishing its objectives in Iran but warned that the next two to three weeks will involve intense military activity. "We are on track to complete all of America's military objectives shortly, very shortly," the president said in his first primetime address since the war began. "We're going to hit them extremely hard over the next two to three weeks," he said.
Naval targets
Willing to end military operations
Reports suggest that Trump is willing to end military operations even if the Strait remains mostly closed. The WSJ earlier reported that Trump has decided to focus on crippling Iran's navy and missile stocks while winding down hostilities. At the same time, he plans to pressure Tehran diplomatically to resume trade flow. The US has been conducting airstrikes across Iran as part of 'Operation Epic Fury' since February 28, targeting several cities and leaders.