US President Donald Trump said his administration is discussing with several countries the possibility of helping “police” the strategic Strait of Hormuz to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while returning to Washington from Florida, Trump said the United States had approached about seven countries about forming a coalition to escort ships through the key maritime route.
Trump said he had also raised the issue with China, noting that Beijing is heavily dependent on oil shipments passing through the narrow waterway. “I asked China, would you like to come in?” he said, adding that Washington would see what decision Beijing ultimately makes.
The US president did not name the other countries involved in the discussions but mentioned NATO and said some nations should help protect areas critical to their energy supply.
He said he told counterparts that the United States would “remember” if countries declined to assist in safeguarding the route.
Trump also noted that several countries possess minesweepers and certain types of boats that could support efforts to secure shipping through the Strait, a vital global oil transit corridor.
With inputs from BBC