As global crude prices climb and gasoline costs reach near four-year highs, the Trump administration is directing international partners to secure their own oil resources. This call comes as Iran continues its blockade of the critical Strait of Hormuz, a major artery for global energy transport.

Allies Urged to Step Up Amid Strait of Hormuz Crisis

Iran's lockdown of the Strait of Hormuz is preventing tankers carrying one-fifth of the world's oil supply from passing through, causing significant economic strain globally. Although the U.S. claims to have degraded Iran's military capabilities during the ongoing month-long conflict, the strait remains a major point of contention.

Defense Secretary Echoes Call for International Action

During a news conference on Tuesday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth reinforced the administration's stance, stating that U.S. allies must take greater responsibility for reopening the strait.

Hegseth specifically called out nations that benefit from global trade routes. "There are countries around the world who ought be prepared to step up on this critical waterway as well," Hegseth stated. He specifically referenced the British Navy, noting, "Last time I checked, there was supposed to be a big, bad Royal Navy that could be prepared to do things like that as well.”

President Trump's Direct Message to Partners

The economic pain from high fuel prices is widespread, affecting consumers across the globe. Except for Israel, the U.S. has reportedly received no assistance from allies in confronting Iran.

President Donald Trump took to Truth Social on Tuesday, asserting that after nearly a month of conflict, it is time for allies to become more actively involved. He directed specific criticism toward nations struggling with fuel shortages.

'Go Get Your Own Oil,' Says Trump

Trump offered two main suggestions for allies like the United Kingdom, which he noted refused to participate in operations against Iran. "Number 1, buy from the U.S., we have plenty," Trump posted.

His second suggestion was more confrontational: "Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT," he wrote. Trump emphasized self-reliance, stating, "You’ll have to start learning how to fight for yourself, the U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!”

Allied Response and U.S. Military Posturing

The sentiment among some key allies is one of reluctance to escalate involvement. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer told reporters on Monday, “This is not our war, we’re not going to get drawn into it.” He clarified that while they are assessing options in the Strait of Hormuz, they would not be pulled into the conflict.

Meanwhile, the U.S. is increasing its military footprint in the region, which raises the prospect of deploying ground troops within the strait. Hegseth confirmed that keeping ground troop options open is part of the Pentagon's strategy.

Hegseth concluded by reiterating the administration's firm stance to Tehran. “The president's been clear to Iran: open it for business, or we have options, and we certainly do,” he stated.