Trump suggests two options to UK, others after denial to deploy troops to Iran

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has suggested two options to countries, including the United Kingdom, after they declined to send troops to the Strait of Hormuz in a joint effort with the US.

Taking to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump said that allies who refused to join his efforts are left with “two options to fight” for themselves.

“Number 1, buy from the US. We have plenty. Number 2, build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait, and just TAKE IT,” he wrote.

Trump added that these countries will now have to “start learning how to fight” for themselves, clarifying that the US would not intervene on their behalf. He stated:

“The USA won’t be there to help you anymore… just like you weren’t there for us.”

He also referenced the damage inflicted on Iran following the killing of Iran’s spiritual leader and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps leader, Ayatollah Khomeini, on February 28 in Tehran. Trump said most of Iran’s threatening sites and key figures have been neutralised, calling it “the hardest part ever.”

“Iran has been, especially, decimated. The hard part is done. Go and get your oil!!” he added.

Meanwhile, US Secretary of Defence John Daniel Raizin Caine warned that the coming days in the conflict with Iran would be “decisive.” He stated that Tehran would face tougher consequences if it did not agree to a deal.

Caine said the US had struck around 200 targets inside Iran over the past day and would intercept any missiles fired by Tehran.

“The coming days will be decisive in this war. We have effectively neutralised Iran’s navy and air force,” he said.

He added that US forces were continuing strikes on key industrial and research facilities in Iran, signalling sustained military pressure. While Trump seeks a deal with Iran, Caine warned that failure to reach an agreement would make the situation more difficult for Tehran.

“If Iran shows wisdom, a deal can be reached,” he said. “The United States has many options, while Iran has limited choices.”