U.S. President Donald Trump has raised the possibility that the United States could remain in Iran and retain control of the country’s oil resources, as the ongoing conflict continues to heighten concerns over energy supplies and stability across the Middle East.
Trump made the remarks on Sunday, September 13, during his visit to Ireland, where he attended the Irish Open golf championship, according to Reuters. He suggested that the United States could eventually leave Iran but might reconsider if keeping the country’s oil became part of its strategy.
“We’ll ultimately get out of Iran, unless we decide to stay and keep the oil like Venezuela,” Trump said.
The comments come amid growing uncertainty over the future of the conflict and its wider consequences for global energy markets. The Middle East remains a crucial source of oil for the international market, while attacks on energy infrastructure and shipping routes have raised fears of further supply disruptions.
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Trump also linked his comments to the United States’ approach to Venezuela, suggesting that oil revenues could help offset the costs associated with American military operations.
The president said he expected the conflict with Iran to eventually end, possibly later this year. He also predicted that gasoline prices would fall sharply once the fighting was over.
Meanwhile, tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have continued to affect global energy security. The strategic waterway is one of the world’s most important routes for oil shipments, and continued disruption could have consequences for energy prices, transportation costs and economies that rely on imported crude.
The situation has been further complicated by attacks on regional energy infrastructure. A Saudi oil pipeline was severely damaged in a drone attack, according to Reuters, raising concerns that prolonged disruption could affect a significant portion of global oil supplies.
Oil prices have consequently remained volatile, with crude prices moving above $100 a barrel as traders assess the risks posed by the conflict and disruptions to production and transportation.
Trump also claimed that Iran had been repeatedly seeking negotiations with Washington. According to Reuters, he said Tehran was “calling constantly” for talks. Iranian officials have previously rejected similar claims concerning efforts to initiate negotiations.
The possibility of the United States remaining in Iran to control its oil resources would represent a significant expansion of Washington’s involvement in the country. It could also provoke opposition from Tehran and other governments concerned about Iran’s sovereignty and control over its natural resources.
The remarks are nevertheless likely to intensify international debate over Washington’s objectives in the conflict, particularly as governments and energy markets continue to monitor developments across the Middle East and their potential impact on global oil supplies.
