US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said countries affected by the current fuel shortages should buy their oil from the United States.
"Buy oil from the United States of America. We have plenty. We have so much," Trump said in a national address in Washington, referring to countries affected by disrupted oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz due to the Iran war.
He also urged those countries to take responsibility for securing the crucial waterway.
"They must cherish it. They must grab it and cherish it. They can do it easily," Trump said.
"We will be helpful, but they should take the lead in protecting the oil that they so desperately depend on."
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial route for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments from the Gulf region. Recent Iranian attacks and threats, amid the conflict started by the US and Israel in late February, have largely halted traffic, allowing only limited tanker passage.
The disruptions have contributed to rising global energy prices.
Trump has called on countries that receive oil via the Strait of Hormuz to help protect the route. That help did not materialize,drawing sharp criticism from Trump. He also voiced disappointment with NATO allies, calling them "cowards."
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
