US President Donald Trump has called on nations to deploy warships to the Strait of Hormuz to safeguard shipping lanes as Iranian forces continue retaliatory attacks amid US and Israeli strikes on Iran. The narrow waterway between Iran and Oman handles about a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas, making it strategically vital.
Trump posted on his Truth Social platform that “Countries of the World that receive Oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage, and we will help – A LOT!” He added that the US would coordinate with allied nations to ensure operations proceed “quickly, smoothly, and well,” naming China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK as potential contributors.
The president also warned of ongoing military action against Iranian targets, stating, “The United States will be bombing the hell out of the shoreline, and continually shooting Iranian Boats and Ships out of the water.” The White House has not confirmed whether any countries have committed naval forces.
The heightened tensions follow Iran’s blockade of the strait, which has contributed to a 40% surge in oil prices and attacks on Gulf energy facilities. US forces targeted Kharg Island, a major oil export hub for Iran, reportedly striking military targets while sparing energy infrastructure. Iran warned that any hits on US-linked energy firms would be met with severe retaliation.
Western nations have bolstered their military presence in the region. The UK is considering additional deployments to ensure maritime security, while France is sending a dozen vessels, including an aircraft carrier strike group, to the Mediterranean, Red Sea, and potentially the Strait of Hormuz. French officials said they are consulting with European, Asian, and Gulf partners to organize possible convoy escorts for tankers.
The international crisis extends beyond the Gulf. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres visited Beirut to stress diplomatic solutions amid escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, triggered by US-Israeli strikes that killed Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Israel has continued attacks in Lebanon, with Lebanese health authorities reporting at least 826 deaths since 2 March, including 106 children.
Guterres launched a $325 million humanitarian appeal to support Lebanon’s response to mass displacement caused by Israeli evacuations. He warned the international community to engage with the Lebanese state and support efforts to disarm Hezbollah. Turkey voiced concern over potential “new genocide” by Israel under the pretext of fighting Hezbollah.
Amid ongoing hostilities, health workers remain at risk. Lebanon’s health ministry reported 31 paramedics killed this month, including in an overnight Israeli strike on a healthcare center in Burj Qalawiya. Israel maintains that Hezbollah uses medical facilities for military purposes and claims its operations comply with international law.
Residents in Beirut and southern Lebanon report heightened fear. “There’s no safety anymore… you never know where a strike will come from,” said a Sidon resident sheltering with family. French President Emmanuel Macron has offered to host direct talks with Israel to prevent further escalation and regional instability.
The situation in the Gulf and Lebanon underscores rising geopolitical tensions, with the safety of critical shipping routes and civilian populations at the center of growing international concern.
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