Washington, 15 March (H.S.): U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified his rhetoric against Iran, threatening additional strikes on the strategic Kharg Island oil export hub and calling on global allies to deploy warships to secure the Strait of Hormuz amid an escalating conflict now in its third week.

Bold Threats Amid Stalemate

Trump, speaking to NBC News from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, claimed recent U.S. airstrikes had totally demolished most of Kharg Island, reversing earlier assertions that only military targets were hit. We may hit it a few more times just for fun, he remarked, signaling no immediate de-escalation despite Tehran's overtures for negotiations, which the administration has rebuffed.

This comes as Iran maintains a de facto blockade of the strait—through which 20% of global oil flows—allowing passage selectively to non-adversaries like India while vowing to target U.S.-linked vessels.

The conflict erupted on February 28 with joint U.S.-Israeli strikes under Operation Epic Fury, killing Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and prompting Iranian missile and drone retaliation across the Gulf, including attacks on UAE ports and U.S. bases. Over 2,000 deaths have been reported, predominantly in Iran, with recent strikes hitting civilian sites like a factory in Isfahan.

Global Shipping in Peril

Energy markets reel from the disruptions, with oil prices surging due to halted tanker traffic and fires at UAE's Fujairah terminal after Iranian drone strikes. Trump urged nations like China, France, Japan, and Britain to contribute naval forces, posting on Truth Social: The Countries of the World that receive Oil through the Hormuz Strait must take care of that passage, and we will help - A LOT!

European allies expressed cautious support for a future coalition, but none committed warships immediately.

Iran's new leadership under Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei dismissed U.S. claims of his injury and ordered evacuations near UAE ports, labeling U.S. facilities legitimate targets. The IRGC confirmed launching missiles and drones toward Gulf states, underscoring Tehran's resolve to prolong the standoff.

Diplomatic Deadlock Persists

While Trump hinted Iran might be ready to make a deal, he deemed proposed terms insufficient, undercutting mediation attempts by regional allies. Tehran rejects any ceasefire without an end to U.S. and Israeli airstrikes, projecting defiance as the war disrupts not just oil but global trade routes.

Analysts warn of spillover risks into the Indian Ocean, with commercial shipping facing a highly uncertain operating environment.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar