Trump Demands Tankers 'Show Guts' in Hormuz as Oil Prices Spike Amid Iran-Israel Conflict
Former US President Donald Trump has issued a bold call to oil tanker crews navigating the critical Strait of Hormuz, urging them to "show some guts" and proceed without fear amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel. This statement comes as global oil prices surged past $100 per barrel early Monday, driven by fears of prolonged disruptions to energy supplies through this vital maritime chokepoint.
Global Oil Market in Turmoil as Shipping Grinds to a Halt
Approximately one-fifth of the world's oil typically transits through the narrow Strait of Hormuz, but shipping has largely ground to a halt since the conflict began over a week ago. The disruption follows a series of US-Israeli strikes on Iranian military installations, which prompted retaliatory drone and rocket attacks from Iran targeting neighboring oil and gas-producing nations. Some of these nations host US military bases in the region, further complicating the security landscape.
Fox News host Brian Kilmeade revealed on Fox & Friends that Trump, during a call, encouraged oil transportation companies to "get to it", arguing that Iran's capability to attack ships has been significantly weakened. Kilmeade quoted Trump directly: "These ships should go through the Strait of Hormuz and show some guts, there’s nothing to be afraid of. [The Iranians] have no navy, we sunk all their ships."
Trump's Assessment of Iranian Military Capabilities
Trump elaborated on the perceived reduction in Iranian threats, stating that most of Iran's launchers have been destroyed. He claimed, "Look, there is risk in the region, the region is volatile, their launchers, there’s just about 150 left, that’s just about 20% of totals, they can’t regenerate, they can’t make any more. We are in the region and need to act quickly on all these type of attacks."
Kilmeade further explained that the Trump administration is reportedly deploying additional naval assets to escort tankers through the strait. He noted that a tanker successfully navigated the passage on Sunday without incident, suggesting that the route may be safer than perceived. Summing up Trump's message, Kilmeade concluded, "He’s saying, 'Come on, guys. Get to it!'"
Broader Implications for Energy Security and Geopolitics
The ongoing conflict has triggered a significant spike in oil prices, with benchmarks exceeding $100 per barrel due to concerns over sustained supply disruptions. Iran's missile strikes, including an attack on Bahrain's largest BAPCO oil refinery, have exacerbated fears, as evidenced by video footage showing thick black smoke rising from the facility.
This situation underscores the fragile nature of global energy security in geopolitically volatile regions. The US-Israeli joint operations and Iran's retaliatory measures have created a high-stakes environment, with Trump's comments reflecting a push to normalize shipping activities despite the risks. As the conflict continues to evolve, the international community remains watchful of further escalations that could impact oil markets and regional stability.
