Trump Calls on China to Help Secure Strait of Hormuz Amid Global Energy Crisis
In an interview with the Financial Times on Sunday, March 15, 2026, Trump emphasized that because China imports approximately 90% of its oil through this route, Beijing shares a significant responsibility in ensuring it remains open. The President issued a diplomatic ultimatum, suggesting that his scheduled visit to Beijing at the end of March could be postponed if China does not clarify its commitment to maritime security in the Gulf.
The President’s comments coincide with high-level trade and diplomatic talks currently taking place in Paris between U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng. Trump’s strategy involves pressuring major beneficiaries of the route to contribute military assets, such as mine-sweepers and drones, to counter Iranian blockades. This shift toward China follows deep frustration with traditional allies; Trump specifically criticized British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressing disappointment that the United Kingdom—traditionally America’s closest ally—has declined to send warships to the region during this crisis.
In a stern warning to Tehran, Trump threatened to target Kharg Island, Iran's primary oil export terminal, claiming the U.S. has the capability to strike the facility within five minutes if the blockade persists. Iran has effectively closed the strait using sea mines and drone swarms following the initial U.S.-Israeli strikes two weeks ago. With nearly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) passing through this narrow passage, the continued deadlock has triggered fears of a catastrophic surge in global energy prices, though neither the White House nor Beijing’s Foreign Ministry has issued an official joint statement on the matter yet.
