Strait of Hormuz update: US President Donald Trump says US Navy may escort ships after Iran closure

US President Donald Trump is set to defy Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, bringing in the US military might after Iran threatened to blow up any unauthorised ship.

Max Corstorphan
The Nightly
Donald Trump says the US Navy will start escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz.
Donald Trump says the US Navy will start escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Credit: The Nightly

US President Donald Trump has ordered his administration to provide support to ships in the Strait of Hormuz to ensure the continuation of energy supply after Iran closed the key waterway.

The Strait, which is controlled by Iran, hosts transportation of 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply, 20 per cent of the world’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) and a third of the world’s fertiliser supply.

Iran ordered the closure on Tuesday, threatening to blow up any non-authorised ships that attempted to traverse the narrow strait.

Sign up to The Nightly's newsletters.

Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.

Email Us
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.

“Effective IMMEDIATELY, I have ordered the United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide, at a very reasonable price, political risk insurance and guarantees for the Financial Security of ALL Maritime Trade, especially Energy, traveling through the Gulf,” Mr Trump announced on Truth Social.

“This will be available to all Shipping Lines.

“If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, as soon as possible.

“No matter what, the United States will ensure the FREE FLOW of ENERGY to the WORLD.”

Map of the Strait of Hormuz showing the width, the water depth, the refineries and the liquefied natural gas terminals in the area. AFP / Omar KAMAL
Map of the Strait of Hormuz showing the width, the water depth, the refineries and the liquefied natural gas terminals in the area. AFP / Omar KAMAL Credit: NALINI LEPETIT-CHELLA/AFP

In a warning to Iran, Mr Trump reminded the nation he was in charge of the strongest collective of armed forced.

“The United States’ ECONOMIC and MILITARY MIGHT is the GREATEST ON EARTH,” he added.

Comments

Latest Edition

The Nightly cover for 03-03-2026

Latest Edition

Edition Edition 3 March 20263 March 2026

President vows US can fight war ‘forever’ as he mulls deploying ground troops to Iran.