Washington, March 16 (UNI) US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that the USA is talking with seven nations on helping secure the Strait of Hormuz, urging countries dependent on Gulf oil to assist in protecting shipping in the narrow but strategic sea corridor.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said several governments had been approached to help safeguard commercial vessels passing through the narrow waterway. Trump however, did not name the countries. Analysts believe that European powers France and Great Britain are among those who have been asked to join in.
“I’m demanding that these countries come in and protect their own territory because it is their territory,” Trump said, adding, that they should collaborate as “they get their energy” from the region.
The American president said he expected several of the countries contacted to deploy naval vessels to ensure safe passage for ships through the strait, a key maritime chokepoint through which roughly 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes.
Trump also spoke about Operation Epic Fury, suggesting that negotiations with Tehran remain uncertain.
“They want to negotiate badly, as they should, but I don’t think they’re ready to do what they have to do,” he said. “We will finish the job.”
The war between US and Israel on one side and Iran on the other has escalated sharply since the end of February when it started. As a result the conflict has disrupted tanker traffic and creating volatility in global energy markets. Iran has resorted to blocking oil shipments through the route by using drones, mines etc.
