Iran‑US Tensions: Trump Weighs New Moves While Energy Prices Soar

Trump has warned Iran that it needs to act quickly, hinting at stronger military options for the Strait of Hormuz after talks broke down. The U. S. is keeping a naval blockade in place, effectively choking a vital trade route for two months. This blockage has pushed gas prices in the U. S. to $4. 23 per gallon, the highest in nearly four years, and sent global oil prices above $115 a barrel. Iran’s currency has collapsed to about 1. 8 million rials for one dollar, stressing its economy further. In a recent meeting in the Situation Room, Trump’s national security team explored whether to increase or reduce U. S. military presence in the strait and how aggressive operations should be. No decision has been made yet, but senior officials are still discussing options with energy companies such as Chevron and Vitol. They aim to keep the blockade active for months if necessary while trying to shield American consumers from the worst effects.Trump’s social media post on Truth Social was blunt, calling for Iran to “get smart soon” and refusing any deal that would let the country pursue nuclear weapons. He added an AI‑generated image of himself with a gun, emphasizing his stance. Washington’s official position remains that Iran must halt its enrichment program and that any agreement must prevent the country from developing nuclear arms. During a state dinner for King Charles III, Trump reiterated that the U. S. had “militarily defeated” Iran and would never allow it a nuclear weapon, a view echoed by the British monarch. Meanwhile, U. S. Marines boarded a commercial ship but let it continue its journey, while Iran has seized two vessels and attacked three others in the maritime standoff. Traffic through the strait remains minimal, with only 11 ships moving in the last 12 hours. A glimmer of relief appeared when a Japanese tanker, Idemitsu Maru, successfully crossed the waterway and headed to Japan.