President Donald Trump has signaled a potential shift in the ongoing US-Iran conflict, indicating he is ready to wind down military operations even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed. According to a Wall Street Journal report, Trump told aides that fully reopening the vital waterway—which carries about one-fifth of global seaborne oil—may not be an immediate priority, favoring broader de-escalation and talks with a post-conflict Iranian leadership.
In a pointed Truth Social post on Tuesday, Trump directly addressed the UK and other allies affected by disrupted oil and jet fuel supplies. He criticized them for not joining the US-Israeli campaign against Iran, which he described as having “decimated” the regime. Trump urged the UK to “go get your own oil,” suggesting they either buy from the energy-rich United States or “build up some delayed courage” and send forces to the Strait to “just TAKE IT.”
“You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself,” he wrote. “The U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us.” The message underscores an “America First” approach: the US has done the heavy lifting, and allies must now secure their own energy needs or contribute directly. Oil prices remain elevated above $100 per barrel amid the uncertainty, hitting Europe and Asia hardest.
The developments reflect Trump’s blend of negotiation overtures and frustration with free-riding allies, as indirect talks with Iran continue. (198 words)
