Trump Claims U.S. Control of Strait of Hormuz Could Boost Oil Export Profits

“Nations relying on oil through the Strait of Hormuz need to safeguard that route,” Trump emphasized. “While we are ready to assist, they should take the initiative to secure the oil they heavily rely on.”

“Here’s a thought. First, purchase oil from the United States. We have an abundance. And second, muster some delayed courage … head to the strait and claim it.”

“I have a suggestion. Number one, buy oil from the United States of America. We have plenty. We have so much. And number two, build up some delayed courage … go to the strait and just take it.”

Follow The Post’s latest coverage on the blocked Strait of Hormuz and its lasting effects

The international community appeared to at least initially bristle at the notion.

“This is not our war,” British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said Wednesday. “We will not be drawn into the conflict.” 

Then a day later, Britain and a coalition of more than 40 countries began discussiing diplomatic ways to reopen the strait, which UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said showed “the strength of our international determination.

“We have seen Iran hijack an international shipping route to hold the global economy hostage,” Cooper said, citing “unsustainable” spikes in oil and food prices “hitting households and businesses in every corner of the world.”

Tehran’s attacks on commercial ships have ground nearly all traffic in the channel to a halt, causing oil prices to surge as much as 50% globally.

French officials have floated the idea to have escort ships for oil and gas tankers leaving the gulf as the conflict de-escalates.

Trump had earlier renewed threats to pull the US out of NATO — while also warning Iran that he would commence bombing it “back to the Stone Ages” if the strait is kept closed.

The president has also weighed a military operation to seize Kharg Island in the strait, a key hub of Iran’s oil exports.

The Trump administration assumed control of Venezuela’s oil exports after successfully capturing and extraditing its dictator Nicolas Maduro to the US to face charges in January.

US officials confirmed later that month that it was buying barrels of oil from the nation at market price and then selling them at a 30% markup, with the first sale priced at $500 million.