Mar 31 (V7N) – US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said countries facing fuel shortages but staying out of the Middle East conflict should secure their own oil from the Strait of Hormuz.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump urged nations that “refused to get involved” to “go to the Strait, and just take it,” adding that the United States would no longer assist them.

“The U.S.A. won't be there to help you anymore… Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil,” he wrote.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the remarks, saying the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway used more heavily by other countries than the United States. He stressed that ensuring its accessibility is not solely a US responsibility.

Hegseth also said the coming days in the conflict with Iran would be “decisive,” while declining to rule out the possibility of deploying US ground forces.

“You can’t fight and win a war if you tell your adversary what you are willing to do,” he said, adding that military options remain open if needed.

At the same time, he indicated that diplomatic efforts to end the war are progressing, saying negotiations are “very real, ongoing, and gaining strength.”

The Pentagon chief also revealed he recently made an unannounced visit to US troops involved in operations under United States Central Command, citing security concerns for not disclosing details.

Meanwhile, top US military officer Dan Caine said American forces have struck more than 11,000 targets, focusing on dismantling Iran’s missile and drone capabilities and disrupting supply chains.

END/WD/RH