U.S. President Donald Trump says the USA is “getting very close” to meeting its military objectives within the Middle East, as tensions escalate over Iran’s actions within the Strait of Hormuz.
In a post on TruthSocial, Trump outlined what he described as key goals of the U.S. military effort, including degrading Iran’s missile capabilities, dismantling its defence industry and stopping it from developing nuclear weapons.
“Never allowing Iran to get even near nuclear capability,” Trump said, adding that the U.S. must remain able to respond “quickly and powerfully” if needed.
He also said the USA may look to scale back its direct role in securing the Strait of Hormuz, suggesting other nations that depend on the waterway should tackle more responsibility.
“The Hormuz Strait could have to be guarded and policed … by other nations who use it,” Trump said, adding the U.S. would assist if asked.
Trump’s comments come as Canada and greater than 20 other countries issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s actions within the region.
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The statement condemns Iran of attacking unarmed business vessels, targeting civilian infrastructure including oil and gas facilities, and effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz.
Three Canadians recently made it back home following weeks stranded aboard a Quebec cargo ship within the narrow passage.
Leaders said such actions threaten global energy supplies and international security.
“Freedom of navigation is a fundamental principle of international law,” the statement said, calling on Iran to right away halt attacks, including using drones, missiles and naval mines.
Countries also warned the disruption of shipping routes could have widespread global impacts, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The group said it is ready to support efforts to make sure secure passage through the strait and stabilize global energy markets.
Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bennet said the Trump administration is taking steps to counter the economic impact of the conflict.
Bennet described Iran as a central actor in global terrorism and said the U.S. is accelerating its military and economic response.
He announced on social media that through short-term authorization, they’re allowing the sale of Iranian oil currently stranded at sea, aimed toward increasing global supply.
“Today, the Department of the Treasury is issuing a narrowly tailored, short-term authorization permitting the sale of Iranian oil currently stranded at sea,” the post read.
The move is predicted to release roughly 140 million barrels of oil into global markets, helping ease pressure on energy prices.
Bennet said the measure is proscribed to grease already in transit and doesn’t allow recent purchases or production, adding the U.S. will proceed to limit Iran’s access to financial systems.
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