Trump suggests other nations aid Hormuz operation as Iran launches strikes

President Donald Trump on Monday stated that Iran had targeted ships in the Strait of Hormuz that were not connected to a U.S. Navy operation and suggested that the affected nations should help the U.S. to clear the critical waterway.

"Iran has taken some shots at unrelated Nations with respect to the Ship Movement, PROJECT FREEDOM, including a South Korean Cargo Ship," he posted on Truth Social. "Perhaps it’s time for South Korea to come and join the mission!"

"We’ve shot down seven small Boats or, as they like to call them, 'fast' Boats. It’s all they have left," he added. "Other than the South Korean Ship, there has been, at this moment, no damage going through the Strait. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Dan Caine, will have a News Conference tomorrow morning."

Trump's statement comes as Iran has launched a number of strikes on Monday. While U.S. Central Command has denied Iranian claims that it struck a U.S. warship, the United Arab Emirates has confirmed strikes on oil and industrial infrastructure.

The war is technically in a state of ceasefire, though negotiations have failed thus far to result in a permanent end to the conflict and it remains unclear whether a full return to active fighting will occur.

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent at Just the News. Follow him on X.