President Trump is framing a potential blockade of Iran as an opportunity for U.S. oil exports. He suggested countries squeezed by such a move, particularly China, should purchase more American crude. The president made the pitch in a recent social media post and during a television interview.
The strategy leverages America's position as the world's largest oil and gas producer. The nation is also the top exporter of liquefied natural gas, providing a new form of geopolitical leverage. The administration is attempting to turn a security threat into an economic advantage for domestic producers.