President Donald Trump warned that the United States would respond with overwhelming force if Iran attempts to shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime corridor for global oil shipments. His warning comes as the ongoing conflict with Iran has sharply disrupted vessel traffic through the narrow passage, driving oil prices upward.

In a message posted on Truth Social, Trump issued a direct threat to Tehran over any effort to interfere with the oil route, which is one of the most important shipping lanes in the world.

“If Iran does anything that stops the flow of Oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America TWENTY TIMES HARDER than they have been hit thus far,” he said on Truth Social. “Additionally, we will take out easily destroyable targets that will make it virtually impossible for Iran to ever be built back, as a Nation, again — Death, Fire, and Fury will reign upon them — But I hope, and pray, that it does not happen!”

Trump has repeatedly cautioned Iran that interfering with traffic through the strait would lead to an escalation of U.S. military action. The narrow waterway sits between Iran and the Arabian Peninsula and is responsible for transporting about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply.

Earlier Monday, Trump told CBS News that he was weighing the possibility of placing the strategic shipping route under U.S. control.

{Matzav.com}