Donald Trump has told Britain and other countries that failed to support the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran to take matters into their own hands over access to oil through the Strait of Hormuz — warning that American assistance can no longer be taken for granted.
In a post on Truth Social, the president addressed nations he said had “refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran”, telling them to “build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.” He added that such countries would “have to start learning how to fight for yourself”, saying the US would not be there to help them as they had not helped Washington. The post ended with the blunt instruction: “Go get your own oil.”
The United Kingdom was singled out by name in the message, with Trump referring specifically to countries like Britain being unable to access jet fuel due to restrictions around the waterway.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, speaking to reporters at a subsequent briefing, echoed the sentiment. Referring to Britain’s naval history, he said: “The last time I checked there used to be a big bad Royal Navy,” suggesting allied nations should be prepared to take a more active role in securing passage through the strait.
Hegseth also pushed back on suggestions that shipping access had not improved, telling reporters there were now “many more” vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz than had been the case previously.
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On the question of how long the military operation would continue, Hegseth declined to give a timeline. “It’s military 101 — don’t tell your enemy what you’re willing to do or not do, and don’t tell your enemy when you’re willing to stop,” he said.
The defence secretary was also asked about a public disagreement between Washington and Tehran over whether diplomatic negotiations were currently under way. Hegseth said the talks were “very real, active and gaining strength,” appearing to confirm that back-channel discussions are ongoing despite conflicting public statements from both sides.
Trump’s post also claimed that Iran had been “essentially decimated” as a result of the campaign, adding: “The hard part is done.“
