TRUMP WARNS OF HARD STRIKE ON IRAN, SAYS U.S. MAY ESCORT SHIPS President Donald Trump said the United States could escort vessels through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary and warned that Iran would be hit “very hard” in the coming week. Speaking in an interview with Fox & Friends and Brian Kilmeade, Trump said the U.S. would protect oil tankers passing through the critical shipping route if required but hopes tensions will ease. His remarks come as the Strait of Hormuz remains a key focus during the ongoing U.S.–Israel war with Iran-backed forces, with oil prices nearing $100 per barrel amid growing market fears.(*Walter Bloomberg)