Trump pitches China trade ‘win’ to US farmers ahead of Xi meeting, midterms

Ahead of a mid-May meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, US President Donald Trump claimed a trade victory for American farmers. Speaking at the White House, Trump stated that he personally secured a deal with Xi to increase Chinese purchases of US soybeans to $40 billion. He attributed this increase to his direct negotiation with Xi, doubling a previous agreement. Trump encouraged farmers to invest in larger equipment due to this increased demand. However, this $40 billion figure has not been confirmed by the US Agriculture Department. Trump previously announced in October that China had committed to purchasing 12 million tonnes of US soybeans by the end of the year and 25 million tonnes annually through 2028.

The article discusses the potential value of ancient Chinese wisdom in navigating current global challenges, particularly the relationship between the US and China. It highlights how Chinese leaders frequently reference classical texts and historical proverbs to inform their foreign policy, offering a long-term perspective shaped by thousands of years of Chinese history. These references, exemplified by Foreign Minister Wang Yi's quote about the Qin Dynasty, emphasize the importance of benevolence and justice alongside strength. The article suggests that this historical perspective can provide valuable insights for global stability, particularly in a world facing numerous crises and uncertainties. It emphasizes that China isn't trying to impose its values, but offering a perspective shaped by its long history.

President Trump announced a delay of approximately six weeks for his planned trip to China, which was originally scheduled for March 31st. During a White House appearance with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Trump stated his intention to commend Japan during his visit to China, despite ongoing tensions between China and Japan regarding Taiwan. The trip will include a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. While the article mentions PLA-Nato talks in the title, the body of the text does not provide any information about this topic.

The White House announced a delay of "a month or so" for the planned summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing. Officially, the postponement allows Trump to manage the escalating conflict with Iran, including efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, the delay follows months of growing frustrations and mismatched expectations between the two countries. Unanswered proposals and a distracted Trump administration, compounded by geopolitical tensions, contributed to Beijing's increasing wariness of the meeting. Trump indicated the summit might occur in "five or six weeks," but provided no further details. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil chokepoint, has disrupted global energy markets and complicated Trump's foreign policy agenda.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi informed U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Thursday of her strong desire to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Takaichi seeks to discuss the past abductions of Japanese nationals by North Korea, a long-standing point of contention between the two countries. She stated that Trump expressed full support for her efforts to find an immediate resolution to the issue and they exchanged ideas on how a meeting with Kim could be arranged. Japan officially recognizes 17 citizens as having been abducted by North Korea in the 1970s and 1980s, with suspicions of more disappearances. While five abductees were returned in 2002, no further progress has been made since.

In a written Nowruz message broadcast on Iranian television, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei stated that Iran's enemies are being "defeated" despite ongoing attacks from the US and Israel. Khamenei praised the Iranian people's resilience and declared the new year as one of "resistance economy under national unity and national security." He claimed that the unity among Iranians, despite their differences, has led to the enemy's defeat. Khamenei, who assumed leadership after his father's assassination in February, asserted that the US and Israel miscalculated by believing attacks would lead to the government's overthrow. He added that the enemy's plan to dominate and dismember Iran has failed, resulting in a "fracture" within their ranks.

Late-night hosts Jimmy Kimmel and Seth Meyers addressed Donald Trump's recent comments during a meeting with Japan's prime minister. Kimmel criticized Trump's joke about Pearl Harbor, suggesting his knowledge of the event comes from the Ben Affleck movie. Kimmel also highlighted a newly unredacted email contradicting Trump's claims about Jeffrey Epstein's relationship with Mar-a-Lago. Meyers also mocked Trump's Pearl Harbor comment, pointing out the historical inaccuracy. Both hosts also discussed the impact of the government shutdown on TSA agents, with Kimmel noting reports of agents selling blood to pay bills. The discussions occurred on their respective late-night shows following Trump's meeting with the Japanese prime minister.

US President Donald Trump met with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi at the White House Oval Office, marking a high-stakes summit that appeared to get off to a positive start. The two leaders discussed bilateral relations and pledged cooperation on trade, global energy market stability, and regional security. Trump expressed support for Japan's role in addressing these issues, stating that they are "stepping up to the plate." Takaichi did not comment on the US-Israeli plans to attack Iran, which were kept secret from her. The meeting took place amid concerns about Trump's behavior towards other allies who have declined to help him clear the Strait of Hormuz. The two leaders agreed to work together and discussed future meetings with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

In a March 19, 2026, meeting at the White House, US President Donald Trump discussed the US- and Israeli-led war against Iran with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Trump stated he expected Japan to increase its support in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil trade route largely shut down by Iran, causing global oil price spikes. When questioned about not informing allies beforehand about the attack on Iran, Trump referenced the Pearl Harbor attack, asking Takaichi why he wasn't told about it. Takaichi condemned Iran's actions but also expressed concerns about the war's severe security environment and anticipated negative economic effects. The meeting occurred amidst efforts to form a coalition to defend the Strait of Hormuz following the start of the war on February 28.

During a meeting in the Oval Office, US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi discussed the president's decision not to inform allies about a potential attack on Iran. When questioned by Takaichi, Trump referenced Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. He stated, "Who knows better about surprise than Japan?" The meeting took place amidst ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East. The article does not provide further context or explanation for Trump's statement.

Following the assassinations of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and security chief Ali Larijani in March 2026, questions have arisen regarding Iran's leadership and power dynamics. The assassinations, which began with attacks by Israel and the US in late February, have created uncertainty about the chain of command. While Mojtaba Khamenei has been announced as the new Supreme Leader, his lack of experience and reported injuries raise concerns. Analysts suggest that lesser-known figures may rise to power, and Iran might delay naming a successor to Larijani for security reasons. Potential influential figures include Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Saeed Jalili. The situation remains fluid, with the exact power structure in Tehran unclear.

According to Israeli national security sources, Iran's new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, son of the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is not effectively controlling the regime. Since his father's death in late February, Mojtaba has not made any public appearances, with some reports claiming he was injured in the strike that killed his father. Despite Iranian officials' claims of good health, sources suggest Mojtaba is an "empty entity" and the Iranian leadership is "broken" and "misfunctioning." A message attributed to Mojtaba was broadcast on Iranian state TV, vowing revenge for recent Israeli strikes that have killed several senior Iranian officials, including Ali Larijani and Gholamreza Soleimani. These strikes are part of what the IDF describes as a continuing and successful effort.

During a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in the Oval Office, Donald Trump responded to a reporter's question about informing allies before a potential attack on Iran by referencing Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor. Trump joked about Japan's history of surprise attacks, asking why they didn't inform him about Pearl Harbor beforehand. The remark, made in response to a question about informing allies before military action, evoked the 1941 attack that led the U.S. into World War II. While some supporters praised the comment, others criticized it as inappropriate. This incident follows a previous awkward exchange where Trump made a similar comment about D-Day.

On the 19th day of the US-Israel attacks, Iran vowed revenge after Israeli strikes killed security chief Ali Larijani and Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani. Iran retaliated with attacks on Israel, causing property damage. The conflict is expanding regionally, with Iran and its allies launching attacks on Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Jordan. Tensions are rising within the US, with a counterterrorism official resigning over perceived pressure from Israel. Iran's Foreign Minister holds the US responsible for the war. FIFA has rejected Iran's request to move World Cup games from the US despite the ongoing conflict.

Israel claims to have killed Iranian Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib in an overnight strike, following reported deaths of two other senior Iranian officials in the past 24 hours. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that he and Prime Minister Netanyahu authorized the military to kill targeted Iranian officials without further approval. Katz also indicated increased strikes against Iran and Hezbollah in Lebanon. These events occur amidst an ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran, now in its third week, with thousands reported dead and the Strait of Hormuz largely closed. Former US President Trump suggested the US could eliminate the Iranian state and leave the Strait's security to other countries. Israeli media reports that the IDF gathered intelligence leading to the declared deaths of the Iranian officials.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian confirmed that Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib was killed in an air strike, which Israel claimed responsibility for on Wednesday. This follows the assassination of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28th and other efforts by Israel and the US to weaken Iran's leadership. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu authorized the IDF to eliminate senior Iranian officials. The IDF said Khatib, appointed in 2021, played a significant role in suppressing protests and that the Ministry of Intelligence supported "repression and terrorist activities." Khatib was sanctioned by the US Treasury in 2022 for cyber activities. According to the Iranian government, over 1,300 people have been killed in Israeli and US strikes on Iran since the start of the war.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz claimed Israel killed Iran's intelligence minister, Esmaeil Khatib, which, if confirmed, would be the third high-profile assassination of Iranian leaders in two days. This follows the reported deaths of security chief Ali Larijani and Basij paramilitary head Gholamreza Soleimani in Israeli air strikes on Tuesday. Iran has not confirmed Khatib's death but will hold funerals for Larijani and Soleimani on Wednesday. Katz also announced that he and Prime Minister Netanyahu authorized the military to eliminate other senior Iranian officials without requiring further approval. The alleged assassinations come amid heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with Iran launching a retaliatory missile attack on Israel.

President Trump has postponed his planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, originally scheduled for late March/early April in Beijing, due to the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran. Trump stated he needs to remain in Washington during the conflict, which has closed the Strait of Hormuz to most global shipping. The meeting is tentatively rescheduled for late April. The US and China remain in communication regarding the visit. The leaders were expected to discuss trade tariffs, export controls, the US relationship with Taiwan, and fentanyl exports, aiming to build on the trade truce established in October. Trump also indicated he is seeking China's help to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

On March 18, 2026, Iran confirmed the death of its national security chief, Ali Larijani, following an Israeli air strike. This comes less than three weeks after the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes. Israel has vowed to "neutralize" the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei. Larijani, a close confidant of the late Ayatollah, played a key role in Iran's retaliatory actions during the ongoing war in the Middle East. The assassination occurred amidst rising tensions, with Iran threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and the US criticizing allies for not assisting in escorting oil tankers.

Donald Trump stated that the U.S. does not need NATO after several members rejected his request to send warships to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. This rebuff comes as Iran vows revenge for the killing of Ali Larijani. The UN refugee agency reports that up to 3.2 million people have been displaced in Iran. The article also mentions a judge ordering the reinstatement of Voice of America staff. The situation in Tehran is further explored through resident accounts of daily life under bombardment. Readers can follow a liveblog for the latest updates on the unfolding events.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's upcoming White House visit with President Trump is now considered higher stakes due to two key developments. Originally, the meeting was intended to align US-Japan strategies before a planned US-China summit. However, the postponement of the US-China summit and the escalation of the Israel-US war on Iran have shifted the dynamics. Takaichi now faces potential pressure regarding tariff levels, US investment demands, and Japan's reluctance to send support ships to the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts suggest Trump may seek a "normal" summit to distract from the Middle East conflict or, conversely, criticize Japan's lack of support for the war and potentially retaliate economically.

President Trump announced the delay of his planned meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, citing the ongoing US-Israel war against Iran as a factor. The meeting, initially scheduled for March 31 to April 2, is now expected to occur in approximately five or six weeks. While Trump stated China was amenable to the postponement and expressed optimism about the US-China relationship, the Chinese embassy in Washington did not confirm the new timeline, stating that communication regarding the visit is ongoing. Trump made the announcement at the White House after a meeting with the Irish leader. He described the economic relationship with China as "very good."

President Trump is postponing his planned trip to China, originally scheduled for late March, citing the demands of the war in Iran. The visit, intended to build on a fragile trade truce, is now expected to occur in five or six weeks. Trump had been pressuring China and other nations to contribute military support to secure the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route, and suggested his travel plans depended on Beijing's response. While Trump stated China was amenable to the delay, he also indicated the U.S. didn't necessarily need assistance from allies. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent attributed any schedule changes to logistical reasons, despite Trump's earlier linkage of the trip to China's involvement in securing the Strait.

US President Donald Trump is seeking to delay a planned March meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in China by about a month. Trump stated the delay is due to the ongoing Iran war, requiring his presence in the US to oversee the conflict. China confirmed discussions are underway regarding the timing of the visit, rejecting any connection to issues surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. While Trump initially suggested China's help in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz was a factor, he later attributed the delay solely to the war. The delay comes amid growing tensions between the US and China, fueled by the Iran war and ongoing trade negotiations.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has blamed the US and Israel for disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments, amid an ongoing war that began on February 28th. Araghchi called on the UN and other nations to condemn the "military aggression" and demand an end to it. The conflict has caused a surge in oil prices, with Brent crude rising over 40%. While Iran claims the strait is open to allies, a senior IRGC advisor previously threatened to close it. The US has called for a naval coalition to secure the waterway, but France has refused to participate. Several nations are reportedly negotiating with Iran for safe passage.

Amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, President Trump is considering postponing his planned meeting with China's Xi Jinping, potentially delaying it by a month. Trump cited the ongoing conflict as the reason for wanting to remain in the US. A Trump administration official denied the delay was intended to pressure China regarding the Strait of Hormuz. Simultaneously, the United Arab Emirates reported its air defenses were intercepting incoming missile and drone attacks from Iran. The UAE's Ministry of Defence stated its forces were responding to ballistic missiles, fighter jets, drones, and loitering munitions.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz announced that Ali Larijani, Iran's national security chief, and General Gholam Reza Soleimani, head of the Basij paramilitary force, were "eliminated" in a Tehran strike. Katz stated he was informed of the event by the Chief of Staff. The alleged killings follow a previous strike that reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in February. Iranian state media acknowledged Larijani's existence through a published note, but there was no official comment from Tehran regarding Katz's statement. Larijani, a former parliamentary speaker and advisor, was a key figure in Iranian politics and nuclear strategy. Soleimani headed the Basij, a major Iranian paramilitary organization.

China has confirmed ongoing communication with the US regarding Donald Trump's planned visit to Beijing, scheduled between March 31st and April 2nd. This comes despite Trump suggesting a potential delay if China doesn't assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for international trade disrupted by the US-Israeli war with Iran. Trump stated China, a major beneficiary of the strait, should contribute to its security. China, while calling for a ceasefire in Iran, has not directly addressed Trump's request for warships but claims to be communicating with all parties to de-escalate tensions. The Strait of Hormuz blockage, caused by retaliation for airstrikes that killed Iran's supreme leader, has led to significant oil supply disruptions.

China confirmed ongoing discussions with the United States regarding President Trump's planned visit, scheduled for late March to early April, despite Trump's threat to postpone it. The potential delay stems from Trump's desire for China to take a position on the Strait of Hormuz situation, where Iran has restricted access following US and Israeli actions. Trump is pressuring countries benefiting from the Strait to help ensure its security. China's Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of head-of-state diplomacy in the relationship and stated that communication with the US is ongoing regarding the visit. While the White House has announced the trip, China has not yet formally confirmed it.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump announced he is seeking to delay a planned trip to China by about a month. The trip, originally scheduled for March 31-April 2, was intended for Trump to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump cited the ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran as the reason for the requested delay, stating his presence was needed in the US during the conflict. Tensions in the Middle East have escalated since the US and Israel launched an attack on Iran in late February. Trump also indicated that China's assistance in unblocking the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran claims to have closed to US and Israeli vessels, could influence the rescheduling of the meeting. The delay risks increasing tensions between the US and China.

The conflict in Iran and potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz highlights vulnerabilities in global energy and maritime sectors, particularly for Asian economies. The Strait is a critical route for oil and liquefied natural gas, and disruptions lead to increased shipping costs and reduced capacity as companies reroute vessels. Countries like Japan and South Korea, heavily reliant on energy imports through the Strait, are more exposed than China, which has diversified its energy sources. While Hong Kong benefits from energy imports from mainland China, its role as a global shipping hub is threatened by potential disruptions to international bunkering. The situation underscores the urgency for Hong Kong and other regions to transition to greener shipping and enhance energy security.

President Trump's reported demand for China to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, controlled by Iran, threatens to derail ongoing US-China trade talks in Paris. With the US-Israeli war in Iran disrupting global energy markets and driving up fuel prices, Trump is allegedly pressuring Beijing to send warships to the strait. Analysts suggest this demand could postpone a planned March 31 summit between Trump and President Xi Jinping, undermining the current trade negotiations. Experts warn that delaying the summit would diminish the significance of any agreements reached in Paris, especially with ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. The sixth round of trade talks recently concluded without significant breakthroughs, and a postponed summit is expected to further hinder progress on economic relations, technology ties, and dispute resolution between the two nations.

In March 2026, Japan began releasing oil from its emergency reserves in response to a global energy crisis. This crisis was triggered by the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran, amid a war with the US and Israel. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced Japan would unilaterally release 80 million barrels, preceding a coordinated effort by the IEA to release 400 million barrels globally. The move aims to stabilize the market amid concerns about disrupted oil supplies through the Strait, a critical waterway for global oil transport. Despite the IEA's efforts, oil prices have remained elevated, with Brent crude rising significantly since the start of the conflict. Japan has stated it will not deploy its navy to the Strait.

Amidst a Middle East crisis, Iran's foreign minister accuses Israel of "ecocide" due to strikes on Tehran fuel depots, citing health and environmental consequences. Donald Trump is pressuring allies to join a coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route effectively closed due to the conflict. Japan and Australia have declined to send warships, while the UK considers deploying minesweeping drones. Trump aims to unveil the coalition list this week, but responses from countries like the UK, Japan, and Australia have been muted. The Strait's closure is causing global energy supply concerns.

In March 2026, US President Donald Trump called for nations including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to send naval ships to the Strait of Hormuz to ensure its safety and openness amidst rising oil prices due to the US and Israel's war on Iran. This call comes as Iran's military effectively blocks the strait in retaliation for US and Israeli strikes. While the US Secretary of Energy claimed to be in dialogue with some countries, no immediate commitments have been made. China stated its responsibility to ensure stable energy supply and willingness to communicate for de-escalation. Iran claims the strait is open to all except the US and its allies, with the decision for safe passage of other vessels left to its military.

US Energy Secretary Chris Wright indicated the conflict with Iran could persist for several weeks, impacting global oil and petrol prices. Wright defended the military action as necessary to eliminate Iran's threat to the Middle East and its ability to destabilize energy markets. He stated the administration aims to prevent further attacks on American soldiers and halt Iran's nuclear weapons program. Oil prices have risen, exceeding $103 per barrel, due to Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for oil and LNG. President Trump has called on countries like China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to deploy warships to ensure the Strait remains open.

Donald Trump is urging countries that rely on oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz to send warships to help keep the waterway open and safe, claiming Iran's actions threaten global oil supply. Trump stated on Truth Social that the U.S. has significantly weakened Iran but needs assistance securing the Strait from potential Iranian attacks. He specifically called on China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK to contribute ships. Trump vowed a strong U.S. response, including bombing the shoreline and targeting Iranian vessels, until the Strait is open and secure. He emphasized that countries benefiting from the oil passage should share the responsibility, with the U.S. offering coordination and support.

Following the alleged closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran in retaliation for bombings by the US and Israel, causing significant disruption to global energy and trade, former US President Trump urged countries to send warships to secure the vital shipping route. The UK, Japan, China, and South Korea are among those considering their options, but have been reluctant to commit to a military response. Iran has declared oil tankers heading to the US, Israel, or their allies as legitimate targets. The UK Ministry of Defence stated they are in discussions with allies, considering options like mine-hunting drones. Japan has also indicated it might send warships to the region. The US has not yet deployed its own navy ships to escort tankers.

The UK is considering sending minesweeping drones to the Strait of Hormuz to help reopen the vital waterway for oil exports. This plan is in response to rising concerns about escalating the crisis by sending ships, as requested by US President Trump. The UK government is exploring options to contribute to the strait's reopening, including mine-hunting drones, in collaboration with its allies. Iran's threat to target ships in the strait has caused oil prices to surge, raising concerns about higher inflation and lower economic growth. Prime Minister Starmer and President Trump discussed the situation, with Starmer emphasizing de-escalation.

Following a U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran, President Trump has called on China, Britain, France, Japan, and South Korea to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz. This request aims to reopen the waterway, a critical passage for global oil supplies. The call for assistance comes despite these nations not being involved in the initial U.S.-Israeli action against Iran. The article suggests that the response from these nations has been cautious, though specific details of their reactions are not provided. The Strait of Hormuz is a strategically important location due to its role in international oil trade.

Donald Trump is urging countries including the UK, China, France, Japan, and South Korea to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz to secure the vital shipping route. This call comes after reported attacks on sixteen ships in the strait since the US and Israel began their war against Iran. Trump stated his belief that Iran could still pose a threat to the waterway despite its military capabilities being largely destroyed. He also threatened to bomb the shoreline and target Iran's oil infrastructure if it interferes with ships in the Strait. Iran has responded by threatening to destroy oil and energy infrastructure belonging to firms working with the US should Kharg Island be attacked and has warned that any tanker bound for the US, Israel or its partners is a legitimate target.

Amid the ongoing US and Israel war on Iran, President Trump announced that "many countries" would send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has effectively closed. Trump stated that nations affected by the closure, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, would join the US in ensuring the strait remains open and safe. He claimed the US had destroyed Iran's military capabilities but acknowledged Iran's potential to disrupt the waterway. An Iranian official responded that the Strait of Hormuz was under control, not militarily closed, and refuted Trump's claims about destroying Iran's navy. Iran's Foreign Minister clarified that the strait was only closed to enemy ships, not all shipping.

Donald Trump urged the UK and other nations via his Truth Social platform to send warships to the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil trading route, following recent attacks on ships and its effective closure amid conflict with Iran. Trump claimed the US has already destroyed Iran's military capabilities but that Iran still poses a threat to the waterway. He suggested countries affected by the closure, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, should contribute ships to ensure the Strait remains open and safe. Iran has refuted Trump's claims about its military being destroyed. The UK's Ministry of Defence stated they are discussing options with allies to secure shipping in the region.

Following disruptions to global oil supplies due to conflict in the Middle East, US President Donald Trump called on nations, including China, France, Japan, South Korea, and the UK, to send warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz. The Strait, located between the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean, is a crucial trade route for oil and liquefied natural gas. The US aims to collaborate with these countries to ensure the Strait remains open and safe, as it carries approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply. Trump indicated that the US would also begin escorting tankers through the Strait soon.