Donald Trump posted a stark warning to Iran on Truth Social Monday evening, threatening military retaliation if the country interferes with oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
"If Iran does anything that stops the flow of Oil within the Strait of Hormuz, they will be hit by the United States of America TWENTY TIMES HARDER than they have been hit thus far," Trump wrote in the post.
Trump escalated his rhetoric further, writing, "Additionally, we will take out easily destroyable targets that will make it virtually impossible for Iran to ever be built back, as a Nation, again — Death, Fire, and Fury will reign upon them — But I hope, and pray, that it does not happen!"
Trump framed the warning as beneficial to multiple nations, saying: "This is a gift from the United States of America to China, and all of those Nations that heavily use the Hormuz Strait. Hopefully, it is a gesture that will be greatly appreciated."
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil trade. Roughly one-third of all seaborne oil passing through the waterway between Iran and Oman.
Trump authorized unprecedented U.S. strikes on Iran last week, sparking intense controversy.
Reports indicate a U.S. strike destroyed an elementary school in Iran, killing 175 people, though Trump has denied U.S. involvement.
The conflict has fractured Trump's MAGA base, with many supporters feeling betrayed, as Trump campaigned on ending foreign entanglements.