Trump Urges Countries Including China to Help Secure Strait of Hormuz Amid US-Israel Conflict with Iran

US President Donald Trump has called on several countries, including China, France, Japan, South Korea and Britain, to deploy warships and other equipment to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway Iran has largely blocked to oil tankers following US and Israeli attacks two to three weeks ago.

The strait carries about 20 percent of the world's crude oil, and its closure has disrupted global energy markets. Trump stated aboard Air Force One that countries dependent on Persian Gulf oil bear responsibility for protecting the passage, adding in a social media post that he hopes the named nations will participate.

Trump said his administration has contacted seven countries for assistance, though he did not name them. He expressed doubt that Iran is ready for serious negotiations to end the conflict.

In an interview with the Financial Times, as reported by Reuters, Trump warned that NATO allies face a "very bad future" if they do not help reopen the strait. He noted that 90 percent of China's oil passes through it and suggested assistance could include minesweepers and equipment to counter drones and sea mines, saying the US has inflicted heavy blows on Iran.

Over the weekend, Trump threatened further attacks on Iran's Kharg Island, the country's main oil export hub. US officials predicted the war will end within weeks, after which energy costs will decrease, despite Iran's claims of resilience.

The Wall Street Journal, citing unnamed US officials, reported that the Trump administration plans to announce early this week that several countries have agreed to form a coalition to escort ships through the strait, though details on timing remain under discussion. The White House has not commented officially.