Trump Claims US Could Secure Strait of Hormuz Amid Regional Conflict

Former U.S. President Donald Trump asserted on Friday that American forces could gain control of the Strait of Hormuz given additional time. He made this declaration via a post on Truth Social, stating the U.S. could "easily OPEN THE HORMUZ STRAIT, TAKE THE OIL, & MAKE A FORTUNE." This statement came as hostilities between Iran and a U.S.-Israeli coalition entered their fifth week, following initial aerial strikes in late February. In response to these military actions, Iran has blocked the strategic waterway, which typically handles approximately 20% of global oil shipments. The closure has contributed to rising energy costs worldwide, making reopening the strait an urgent international concern. Concurrently, Iran targeted facilities including the United Arab Emirates' largest gas plant and a major oil refinery in Kuwait. The ongoing conflict has caused significant regional instability and financial market disruptions, increasing pressure on the Trump administration to swiftly resolve the situation.