Go To Hormuz And Get Your Own Oil — Trump Tells Countries Hit By Blockade

United States President Donald Trump has told countries facing fuel shortages amid the Middle East conflict to seize oil from the Strait of Hormuz themselves.

In a Truth Social post on Tuesday, Trump directed the message at nations that refused to join the US-led campaign against Iran. He said they should “build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” adding that the United States would no longer offer protection or support.

“The U.S.A. won’t be there to help you anymore, just like you weren’t there for us. Iran has been, essentially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go get your own oil!” Trump wrote.

The remarks come as Iranian attacks and disruptions have tightened control over the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway that carries one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Global fuel prices have surged since the US-Israeli strikes began in late February, hitting import-dependent economies hard.

NaijaChoice News reports that the statement has triggered fresh anxiety in Nigeria, where petrol prices have already climbed to between N1,350 and N1,500 per litre in many parts of the country.

Before the conflict escalated, a litre of petrol sold for between N830 and N900. The sharp rise follows global crude price spikes triggered by attacks on tankers and reduced flows through the Gulf.

Nigeria produces crude oil but still imports most of its refined petroleum products. The Dangote Refinery’s operations have not fully shielded the market from these external shocks, as the facility continues to source expensive crude from abroad.

Energy analysts say Trump’s “America First” posture signals a major shift. With Washington stepping back from policing key sea routes, countries like Nigeria may face prolonged volatility in fuel supply and costs.

The House of Representatives had already warned of possible nationwide scarcity within days if supply chains are not stabilised. Long queues at filling stations and higher transport fares are already straining households across Lagos, Kano and other major cities.

Government officials are yet to issue an official reaction to Trump’s comments. However, industry watchers believe the development underscores the urgent need for Nigeria to boost local refining capacity and reduce dependence on imported fuel.

As the Iran conflict enters its second month, the Strait of Hormuz remains a flashpoint. Trump insists the US has completed the toughest phase of the operation and expects others to secure their own energy needs.

For Nigerian motorists and businesses already battling high living costs, the message from Washington adds another layer of uncertainty to daily fuel struggles.