Trump called for increased oil production as the White House issued stronger warnings to Iran not to close the Strait of Hormuz—a critical passage through which about 20% of the world’s oil and gas flows—in retaliation for the recent U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
“To the Department of Energy: DRILL, BABY, DRILL!!! And I mean NOW!!!” Trump posted on social media. He continued, “EVERYONE, KEEP OIL PRICES DOWN. I’M WATCHING! YOU’RE PLAYING RIGHT INTO THE HANDS OF THE ENEMY. DON’T DO IT!”
His appeal comes amid heightened tensions, as U.S. embassies and military bases across the Middle East remain on alert for possible Iranian retaliation. Financial markets are also closely watching the fallout after the U.S. struck Iran’s key nuclear sites with a barrage of heavy bunker-buster bombs and cruise missiles.
Iran’s parliament recently voted in favor of closing the Strait of Hormuz. The final decision lies with the country’s national security council. If enacted, it could lead to global supply disruptions and rising costs for energy and consumer goods.
Oil prices initially spiked about 4% after trading opened Sunday night, though the market quickly shifted focus from U.S. military action to how Iran would respond. By Monday morning, oil futures fluctuated between modest gains and losses but remained above pre-conflict levels.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt issued a renewed warning to Iran: “The Iranian regime would be foolish to make that decision,” she said, referring to the possible closure of the strait.
Meanwhile, the State Department expanded emergency evacuation flights for U.S. citizens in Israel and ordered the departure of non-essential staff from the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon. It also updated travel advisories for the Middle East in anticipation of potential Iranian reprisals against American interests.
In a global security alert posted Sunday, the State Department urged all U.S. citizens abroad to maintain heightened awareness. On Monday, the U.S. Embassy in Qatar issued a separate alert advising Americans there to shelter in place. A few hours later, the Qatari government ordered the closure of its airspace—an unusual move in the energy-rich nation that hosts Al Udeid Air Base, the forward headquarters for U.S. Central Command.
