Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced that his administration is contemplating "winding down" its military operations against Iran. He called upon South Korea, China, Japan, and other nations to participate in securing the crucial Strait of Hormuz.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump revealed these plans via a social media post, asserting that the United States is nearing the accomplishment of its military campaign goals. These objectives include neutralizing Iran's missile capabilities, dismantling its defense industrial base, and incapacitating its navy and air forces, alongside preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
In his statement on Truth Social, Trump emphasized the progress, stating, "We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran." His comments arise amid increasing concerns over the economic impact of the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, as rising oil prices are expected to drive inflation.
Trump underscored the necessity for other nations utilizing the Strait of Hormuz to take responsibility for its security. He noted that Iran has significantly disrupted the strait, which handles about 20% of the world's oil supply, due to the U.S. and Israel's airstrikes initiated in late February. He stated, "The United States does not! If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn't be necessary once Iran's threat is eradicated."
During a White House press session, Trump reiterated the call for involvement from South Korea, China, Japan, and others to safeguard the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting their dependency on the strategic passage for energy imports. He also mentioned that the U.S. no longer requires naval support from NATO or other nations, addressing their reluctance to assist in keeping the strait open.
Trump clarified the U.S. position by saying, "We don't use the strait. We don't need it. Europe needs it. Korea, Japan, China, (and) a lot of other people," indicating that these nations need to actively partake in maintaining the strait's accessibility. In response to inquiries about South Korea's potential support, Trump acknowledged the robust relationship between the two countries, expressing, "I love South Korea. We have a great relationship with South Korea where we're helping South Korea a lot."