In a social media post on Tuesday, President Donald J. Trump issued a blunt ultimatum to global allies, specifically targeting the United Kingdom. He stated that countries facing severe jet fuel shortages must either buy energy directly from the United States or deploy their own militaries to “take” control of the Strait of Hormuz.
The President’s comments come as the 2026 Iran Crisis enters a critical phase, with the vital shipping chokepoint effectively blocked to commercial traffic. Trump claimed that the U.S. has already completed the “hard part” by “decimating” Iran and will no longer provide a security umbrella for nations that did not participate in the initial military campaign.
“All of those countries that can’t get jet fuel because of the Strait of Hormuz, like the United Kingdom, which refused to get involved in the decapitation of Iran, I have a suggestion for you,” Trump wrote. “Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty, and Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT.”
The directive marks a historic shift in American foreign policy, signaling an end to the U.S. Navy’s traditional role as the primary guarantor of free navigation in the Persian Gulf. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the “big, bad Royal Navy” should step up rather than relying on American taxpayers to secure international waterways.
In the UK, the timing of the remarks is particularly sensitive. Following the closure of the Grangemouth refinery last year, Scotland and the wider UK have become increasingly vulnerable to supply shocks.
Analysts warn that Britain is set to receive its final shipment of Middle Eastern jet fuel this week, raising the specter of grounded flights and energy rationing.
Global oil markets reacted sharply to the uncertainty,
with Brent crude prices hovering near $106 per barrel. While Trump hinted at progress in diplomatic talks, he warned that if the Strait is not “open for business” shortly, the U.S. may “obliterate” remaining Iranian infrastructure before withdrawing its forces entirely.
