WASHINGTON D.C. — Donald Trump said on Sunday that the United States is currently in discussions with seven countries regarding the security of the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting the waterway’s strategic importance for global oil transport.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One about Operation Epic Fury, Trump emphasized that the talks focus on multinational cooperation to police the strait. He specifically noted that China recent developments in Iran, including the appointment of Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. He dismissed a widely circulated social media video showing 250,000 people allegedly cheering for Khamenei in a public square, calling it “AI-generated” and claiming it “never took place.” He argued that media outlets exaggerated the leader’s public support, stating, “Totally AI-generated. It never took place. The media knew it didn't take place, but they built it up like they have great support. They don't have support.”
The US president also commented on the impact of the ongoing conflict on global energy markets, asserting that oil prices will decline once the war ends. “It’s going to end pretty quickly,” he said, suggesting that the conflict’s duration may be shorter than widely expected.
Trump’s statements come amid heightened tensions following joint US and Israel attacks on Iran that began on February 28. The strikes, which targeted Iranian military and strategic infrastructure, have reportedly killed around 1,300 people, including the former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In response, Tehran has launched retaliatory drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, along with Gulf states hosting US military assets. Since early March, Iran has effectively restricted commercial traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint between Iran and Oman’s Musandam Peninsula.
Disruptions to oil and gas shipments through the strait have contributed to rising global energy and fertilizer prices, raising concerns over both energy security and food supply costs. Trump previously indicated that countries receiving oil through the strategic passage should assume responsibility for its security, while US forces would provide assistance. He also stated that US Navy escorts for commercial tankers could commence “soon” to ensure safe transit.
In addition to regional security issues, Trump touched on US relations with Cuba. He said that Washington may soon reach a deal with Havana or take alternative action, describing Cuba as “a failed nation.” “Cuba also wants to make a deal, and I think we will pretty soon either make a deal or do whatever we have to do,” he said, signaling potential shifts in US-Cuba diplomatic engagement.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important maritime routes, accounting for a substantial portion of global oil transport. Its security has become a focal point in international discussions as the US seeks to coordinate with allies to maintain open shipping lanes while deterring further regional escalation.
Trump’s comments underscore Washington’s intent to involve multiple nations in securing the strait, reflecting the waterway’s critical role in global energy markets and its strategic significance amid ongoing Middle East hostilities.
