Trump Action Archive

Supporting reports

• Trump announces Israel-Lebanon ceasefire without Israeli security cabinet vote — Donald Trump posted on Truth Social claiming a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon beginning at 5 PM EST, stating he had "excellent conversations" with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and directing JD Vance, Marco Rubio, and Joint Chiefs Chairman Dan Caine to work toward lasting peace. Israeli journalist Amichai Stein reported that Israel's security cabinet has not yet voted on the ceasefire, meaning Trump declared victory before one of the two parties' governing bodies officially approved it.
• Trump administration cedes Strait of Hormuz sovereignty to Iran — The Trump administration transferred control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil chokepoint, to Iran. Iran has imposed conditions on passage including IRGC approval, designated Iranian shipping lanes, and toll payments. Trump publicly celebrated the transfer. The move represents a significant shift in U.S. Middle East policy and global energy security.
• Trump declared Israel prohibited from bombing Lebanon — Trump posted on Truth Social that Israel is "PROHIBITED" from bombing Lebanon and that "Israel will not be bombing Lebanon any longer." The White House later clarified that the ceasefire agreement allows Israel to retain the right to self-defense against planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks. Israeli officials requested clarification from the White House after being shocked by Trump's declaration.

Supporting reports

• Iranian social media accounts mock Trump over failed blockade — Iranian government social media accounts posted multiple mocking messages directed at Trump regarding the failed Strait of Hormuz blockade. Posts included: "The Strait of Hormuz isn't social media. If someone blocks you, you can't just block them back," "I won. I won. I won. It appears someone is speaking in his sleep," and criticism of Trump's standing with European allies.

Supporting reports

• Chinese tanker transits Strait of Hormuz despite U.S. naval blockade — The sanctioned Chinese tanker Rich Starry, sailing under a Malawian flag and carrying 250,000 barrels of methanol, transited the Strait of Hormuz on April 13, 2026, passing through despite the Trump administration's announced naval blockade involving 10,000 U.S. Marines, sailors, and airmen, over a dozen warships, and dozens of aircraft. The Trump administration took no reported action in response. Maritime intelligence firm Kpler reported only six vessels crossed the Strait that day.

Supporting reports

• Iran nuclear negotiations failed; Trump announced blockade of Strait of Hormuz — Vice President JD Vance's diplomatic mission to negotiate a nuclear agreement with Iran in Pakistan ended without agreement after approximately 21 hours of talks. Three main sticking points remained: reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, disposition of nearly 900 pounds of highly enriched uranium, and release of approximately $27 billion in frozen Iranian revenues. Following the failed negotiations, Trump announced on Truth Social and Fox News that the U.S. Navy would immediately begin a complete blockade of all maritime traffic entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, stating the blockade would begin April 13 at 10 a.m. ET.
• CENTCOM confirmed implementation of Hormuz blockade — U.S. Central Command issued an official statement confirming that CENTCOM forces would begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports beginning April 13, 2026 at 10 a.m. ET, in accordance with the President's proclamation. The blockade would be enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
• Trump threatened military strikes on Iranian infrastructure — Trump posted multiple statements on Truth Social threatening military action against Iran, stating "we are fully 'LOCKED AND LOADED,' and our Military will finish up the little that is left of Iran!" He also told Fox News host Maria Bartiromo that the U.S. could destroy Iranian power plants, bridges, water systems, and desalinization plants, stating "The only thing left really is their water, which would be very devastating to hit. I would hate to do it, but it's their water, their desalinization plants, their electric generating plants. We could have them all down."
• Trump announces naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf — President Trump announced a blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, with 15 American warships positioned to enforce it. Trump posted on social media that Iran's navy is "laying at the bottom of the sea" and threatened to "immediately eliminate" any Iranian fast attack ships approaching the blockade. The announcement came after failed peace negotiations in Islamabad and prompted immediate Iranian retaliation threats and international concern about enforcement against Chinese vessels.
• U.S. Central Command announces naval blockade of Iranian ports — U.S. Central Command announced it would begin a naval blockade of maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET, following failed U.S.-Iran talks. The Strait of Hormuz, the blockade's focal point, handles roughly one-fifth of global oil consumption, raising risks of wider regional conflict and economic disruption. The escalation concentrates executive power and reduces accountability for military decisions.
• Trump announced U.S. military blockade of Strait of Hormuz — President Trump announced that the U.S. military will blockade the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil is transported. Trump described the policy as "all in and all out," stating the blockade would prevent Iran from selling oil selectively. U.S. Central Command announced it would "begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13" in accordance with the President's proclamation.
• U.S. Central Command announces blockade implementation — U.S. Central Command announced that it will begin implementing a blockade of all maritime traffic entering and exiting Iranian ports on April 13, 2026, following President Trump's proclamation. This military action is part of a broader strategy to exert pressure on Iran amid ongoing tensions and failed diplomatic negotiations.

Supporting reports

• China deploys nearly 100 naval vessels in East and South China Seas — China deployed nearly 100 naval and coast guard vessels in the East and South China Seas during the week of April 10, approximately double the typical presence. Two separate security officials told Reuters this represents a new operational baseline rather than a temporary anomaly, signaling a sustained shift in Chinese military posture in contested waters.

Supporting reports

• Trump posted about taking Iranian oil and opening Hormuz Strait while airman was missing — While a U.S. weapons system officer was missing after the shootdown of an F-15E fighter jet over Iran, President Trump posted on social media about opening the Hormuz Strait and taking Iranian oil "to make a fortune" and described it as a "gusher." Later that morning, he posted a threat that Iran had 48 hours before "all Hell will reign down on them," language inconsistent with his typical speech patterns and resembling Defense Secretary Hegseth's rhetoric.
• Trump issues inflammatory threat to Iran — On Easter morning, April 5, after recovery of a second airman, Trump warned Iranian leaders to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, stating "Open the F*ckin' Strait, you crazy bastards, or you'll be living in Hell." He added an Islamic prayer intentionally to be insulting, later telling senior administration officials the threat was "improvisational."
• Trump Threatens Military Action Against Iran — On April 4, 2026, President Trump made a series of social media posts threatening military action against Iran, suggesting that the U.S. could take control of the Strait of Hormuz and its oil resources. He indicated that time was running out for Iran to negotiate, implying imminent military action.
• Trump posted threats against Iran on social media, suggesting attacks on civilian infrastructure and possible nuclear weapons use — On Easter Sunday morning, President Trump posted on his social media account threatening Iran with destruction of power plants and the Strait of Hormuz, using language suggesting possible tactical nuclear weapons deployment. In a subsequent ABC News interview, Trump stated the conflict should be resolved in days and that "very little" was off the table if no deal was reached. The post set a new deadline of Tuesday at 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time for Iranian compliance.
• Trump holds Easter event and turns it into press conference with war rhetoric — Trump held what was billed as a family-friendly Easter celebration at the White House but immediately converted it into a press conference. While Easter music played and children were present, Trump made statements including that Iranian people love hearing bombs and are most unhappy when explosions stop, that Iran "could be taken out in one night, and that night might be tomorrow night," and that he would continue the war if Iran does not meet his demands. Trump also stated he would keep Iran's oil if it were up to him and appeared disoriented, at one point looking for Melania while she stood directly beside him.
• Trump threatens military action against Iran — On April 5, 2026, President Donald J. Trump posted a message on social media threatening military action against Iran, suggesting the use of tactical nuclear weapons and stating that if negotiations fail, he would "blow up the whole country." This ultimatum follows a series of escalating threats and deadlines regarding Iran's actions, indicating a potential shift towards military engagement. Trump's comments have raised concerns about the legality and morality of such actions, particularly regarding civilian infrastructure.
• Trump posts genocidal threat against Iran, then announces ceasefire — At 5:06 a.m., President Trump posted on social media threatening that "a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again" in reference to Iran, an explicit threat of genocide. The post referenced "Complete and Total Regime Change" and suggested possible ground invasion, bombing, or nuclear weapons use. At 6:32 p.m., Trump announced a two-week suspension of bombing and military action against Iran, claiming victory and citing a 10-point Iranian proposal. Iran's media claimed the U.S. had agreed to end sanctions, remove combat forces from the region, and recognize Iranian control of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump then attacked CNN for reporting Iran's claims of victory.
• Trump threatens military action against Iran during Easter event — During the White House Easter Egg roll, President Donald Trump made statements regarding military action against Iran, suggesting that attacking its infrastructure would not constitute a war crime. He claimed that former presidents wished they had taken similar actions and reiterated his belief that the Iranian regime must be prevented from obtaining nuclear weapons. Trump set a deadline for Iran to comply with his demands, threatening "obliteration" if they did not respond favorably.
• Trump threatens annihilation of Iran via Truth Social post with 8pm ET deadline — President Trump posted on Truth Social threatening to "annihilate the entirety of Iranian civilization" if Iran's government does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz by 8pm ET Tuesday. The post, which followed a Monday press conference where Trump made similar threats to reporters, explicitly references destroying a country of 90+ million people and "complete and total regime change." Democrats and some Republicans condemned the statement as a threat to commit war crimes under the Geneva Conventions, with calls for invoking the 25th Amendment.
• Trump threatened Iran with genocide, warning of "a whole civilization will die tonight" — On Tuesday, April 8, President Trump threatened Iran with genocide, stating "a whole civilization will die tonight, never to be brought back again." Harvard human rights professor Mathias Risse noted this violates the Geneva Conventions' prohibition on threats of violence intended to terrorize civilians. Trump subsequently warned Iran that failure to reach a peace deal would result in even deadlier U.S. attacks. The threat terrorized an estimated 90 million Iranian civilians.

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• Trump threatens NATO withdrawal over Iran war alliance refusal — Trump told The Telegraph he is "strongly considering" withdrawing the United States from NATO because member nations did not join his unilateral war on Iran. He called NATO a "paper tiger" and claimed Vladimir Putin agrees with him. Trump's complaint centers on NATO's refusal to support an offensive military action he launched without advance consultation with allies. A bipartisan law signed by President Biden, originally sponsored by Senator Marco Rubio, requires a two-thirds Senate vote for any presidential NATO withdrawal.

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• Trump announced easing of sanctions on Belarus — Trump announced he would ease further sanctions on Belarus to facilitate fertilizer imports into the United States, following the U.S. easing of sanctions on Belarusian banks the previous week. The action aims to circumvent fertilizer supply disruptions caused by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has blocked approximately 20 percent of global fertilizer transportation.

Supporting reports

• Trump reposted Russian propaganda about Ukraine and Biden — On March 27, President Trump reposted Russian propaganda claiming that Ukraine discussed funneling money to President Biden's reelection campaign. The repost amplified disinformation originating from a foreign adversary currently engaged in war against Ukraine.

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• Trump announced easing of sanctions on Belarus — Trump announced he would ease further sanctions on Belarus to facilitate fertilizer imports into the United States, following the U.S. easing of sanctions on Belarusian banks the previous week. The action aims to circumvent fertilizer supply disruptions caused by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has blocked approximately 20 percent of global fertilizer transportation.
• Four Russian lawmakers visited Washington for first time since 2022 invasion — Four Russian lawmakers arrived in Washington, D.C., on March 27 for the first such visit since Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, meeting with U.S. lawmakers and officials. A Russian official characterized the visit as "part of the normalization of relations with the United States of America."

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• Trump administration dropped sanctions on Russian oil already at sea — The Trump administration removed sanctions on Russian oil that was already in transit, providing Russia with an estimated injection of up to $10 billion per month into its cash-strapped war effort against Ukraine. This occurred despite reports that Russia is simultaneously aiding Iran in its conflict with the United States.

Supporting reports

• Gas prices surged across half of U.S. states — Gas market analyst Patrick De Haan reported that half the nation's 50 states have seen average gas prices jump by over $1 a gallon in the last month. The largest jumps included Colorado (+$1.31/gal), New Mexico (+$1.31), Arizona (+$1.27), Illinois (+$1.25), and California (+$1.20). A CBS/YouGov poll found 85% say gas prices are going up in their area, 67% say Americans should not be willing to pay more for gas during the Iran War, and 60% disapprove of the Iran War.
• Jet fuel prices doubled since start of Iran War — The Economist reported that the price difference between jet fuel and crude, or the "crack spread," has grown significantly. This is in part because 20% of the world's jet fuel passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Prices have more than doubled since the fighting started, to an average of around $190 a barrel.
• United Airlines announced 5% flight cancellations due to fuel costs — United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby announced the airline will cancel about 5% of this year's planned flights in the short term as jet fuel prices surge due to the Middle East conflict. Kirby stated: "If prices stayed at this level, it would mean an extra $11 billion in annual expense just for jet fuel."
• Asian nations implemented emergency fuel conservation measures — Multiple Asian countries, which receive nearly 90% of oil and gas passing through the Strait of Hormuz, declared national emergencies and implemented fuel conservation policies. Governments ordered employees to work from home, cut working weeks, declared national holidays, and closed universities early. India experienced fuel shortages and long fuel lines. The Philippines declared a national emergency and considered grounding flights. Australia considered implementing nationwide fuel rationing. China limited fuel price increases despite a 20% price jump for citizens.
• Gasoline prices in the U.S. reached approximately $4 per gallon — U.S. gasoline prices rose to approximately $4 per gallon as a result of the global oil disruption caused by the Iran war and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. This represents one of the highest price levels in recent history, comparable to prices following the start of the Ukraine war.
• Iran operating toll system on Strait of Hormuz — Iran is leveraging control of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping lane, by operating a toll system to generate revenue and exert pressure. This action has triggered global supply chain disruptions including tightening energy markets, liquefied natural gas shortages, disrupted fertilizer exports, and reduced helium exports, affecting food production, manufacturing, and energy costs worldwide.
• U.S. military operations closed Iran's Strait of Hormuz and damaged shipping — Following U.S. military action against Iran that destroyed missile launchers and killed leadership, Iranian forces closed the Strait of Hormuz—through which 20–25% of global oil and liquefied natural gas flows—and attacked and damaged a large number of ships. The closure caused ships to avoid the strait, triggering a global energy crisis. Oil prices spiked approximately 50%, and natural gas prices in Asia rose sharply due to the strait closure and Iranian attacks on Qatar's LNG infrastructure.
• OECD raised inflation forecasts due to Middle East conflict — The OECD sharply increased its inflation forecasts for major economies due to the Middle East conflict. The organization now predicts the average inflation rate for the Group of 20 will jump to 4% this year, rather than the 2.8% it predicted in December, with an even higher pace expected in the U.S.
• Damage to Qatar gas facility disrupts global helium supply — Following damage to a major gas facility in Qatar, Airgas announced it is cutting helium deliveries. Helium is essential for hospital MRI machines and advanced chip manufacturing, including chips relied upon by companies like NVIDIA. The disruption extends the economic impact of the Iran conflict to healthcare and technology supply chains.
• Gas prices rise one dollar per gallon since Iran war began — Gasoline prices have increased by one dollar per gallon since the beginning of the Iran military conflict. The price increase directly impacts household budgets and contributes to inflation and reduced consumer purchasing power.

Supporting reports

• Reports emerged of Russian disinformation plot involving Hungary's Orbán — Credible reports emerged that Russia had considered staging a fake assassination attempt on Hungary's Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to boost his reelection prospects. The report highlighted the use of disinformation and staged political violence as tools to manipulate democratic outcomes in allied nations.
• Russia staged assassination attempt plot against Hungarian PM Orban — The Washington Post reported that a unit of Russia's foreign intelligence service began sounding the alarm over plummeting public support for Hungarian PM Viktor Orban in the run-up to Hungary's pivotal April election. Russian intelligence officers suggested that "drastic action might be necessary" and called one strategy "the Gamechanger." The Russian report stated that "the staging of an assassination attempt on Viktor Orban" could "fundamentally alter the entire paradigm of the election campaign" by shifting perception "out of the rational realm of socioeconomic questions into an emotional one, where the key themes will become state security and the stability and defense of the political system."

Supporting reports

• Trump, Vance, Putin, and Netanyahu endorsed Orban — The bulletin reports that Trump, Vice President Vance, Putin, and Netanyahu have all endorsed Hungarian PM Viktor Orban while attempting to tamper in Hungary's election next month. Netanyahu stated: "Viktor Orbán has been like a rock. Today, we live in turbulent times. You need leaders who can protect against this rising tide and can also ensure safety and stability for their own countries. This is what Viktor Orbán has in abundance."
• Trump endorsed Viktor Orbán for reelection in Hungary — Trump posted on social media endorsing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán for reelection in Hungary's April 12 elections. Trump praised Orbán as "a true friend, fighter, and WINNER" and stated he was "WITH HIM ALL THE WAY," urging Hungarians to vote for Orbán and citing improved U.S.-Hungary relations under his administration.

Supporting reports

• Trump administration lifted sanctions on Iranian oil at sea — On Friday, the Trump administration lifted sanctions on Iranian oil currently at sea in an attempt to lower global oil prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran after the February 28 U.S. attack. The action enables Iran to sell approximately 140 million barrels of oil worth about $14 billion, including to the United States and China. Iranian oil has been under sanctions since 1979.
• Treasury Department lifts sanctions on Iranian oil at sea to lower energy prices — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on March 21 that the Treasury Department was temporarily lifting sanctions on Iranian oil already loaded onto ships as of that date, through April 19. The license allows most countries to purchase the Iranian oil. According to NBC, at current prices the oil would be worth more than $14 billion for Tehran. The administration argued Iran would have difficulty accessing the revenue, but the mechanism for preventing access was unclear. The move occurred during active U.S. military conflict with Iran.
• U.S. temporarily waives sanctions on Iranian oil — The United States temporarily waived sanctions on Iranian oil at sea, allowing it to flow despite escalating military tensions with Iran. This decision has been criticized as contradictory, as it effectively funds a conflict against U.S. interests. The waiver reflects the administration's prioritization of economic factors over strategic military objectives, raising concerns about the coherence of U.S. foreign policy.
• Treasury Secretary Bessent stated U.S. lifted sanctions on Iranian oil as part of strategy — When asked on NBC why the U.S. lifted sanctions on Iranian oil, helping Iran obtain $14 billion in oil revenue while at war with the U.S., Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent responded: "We have always planned for this contingency. In essence, we are jujitsuing the Iranians." Sen. Chris Murphy countered that Trump is "suspending sanctions on Iran and Russia, which will put over $15 billion in their treasuries to help them fund the wars against us."
• Russia increased crude oil sales due to eased sanctions — Ukrainian President Zelensky stated: "Over the past week, Russia launched nearly 1,550 attack drones against Ukraine, more than 1,260 guided aerial bombs, and two missiles. Over that same week, due to the easing of sanctions, Russia increased its crude oil sales to finance its war. Revenues give Russia a sense of impunity and the ability to continue the war. That is why pressure must continue and sanctions must work."
• Trump lifted Treasury sanctions on Iranian oil while claiming to oppose sanctions relief. — Trump announced that Treasury had lifted sanctions on Iranian oil. When asked about this in light of his past criticism of President Obama for providing Iran $1.7 billion, Trump stated he wanted "as much oil in the system as possible" and claimed "We don't even know that Iran gets that money." The statement appeared to contradict his earlier public opposition to sanctions relief for Iran.

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• Treasury Secretary Bessent announces potential removal of sanctions on Iranian oil stranded in tankers — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced on March 19 that the Trump administration may remove sanctions on approximately 140 million barrels of Iranian oil stranded on tankers at sea within days. The stated rationale is to increase global oil supply and reduce prices amid Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A potential waiver mechanism similar to one used for Russian oil would allow sales of the stranded crude within a narrow timeframe. The administration also announced unilateral releases from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve.

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• Trump stated he does not need congressional approval to withdraw from NATO — When asked whether he was considering withdrawing from NATO, Trump stated he was disappointed in NATO and asserted: "I don't need Congress for that decision. As you probably know, I can make that decision myself." However, the National Defense Authorization Act mandates that NATO withdrawal requires either a two-thirds Senate vote or a joint act of Congress, limiting unilateral presidential action. Trump's statement indicated intent to ignore this statutory requirement.

Supporting reports

• Iran closes Strait of Hormuz; gas prices spike 27% in one month — Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz in response to U.S. military operations. U.S. gas prices rose to $3.72 per gallon, the highest level since October 2023, representing a 27% spike over one month (from $2.93 to $3.72 per gallon)—the largest monthly increase in 30 years. Fertilizer prices rose 35% to their highest levels since October 2022. Approximately one-third of global fertilizer supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian Expediency Council spokesperson Mohsen Dehnavi warned of further economic consequences if the Bab al-Mandab Strait is also closed.
• UAE and Kuwait oil production collapses — Bloomberg reported that UAE oil production fell from 3.56 million barrels per day last month to approximately 2 million barrels per day, a decline of 1.56 million barrels per day. Kuwait's oil production dropped from 2.6 million barrels per day to approximately 1.3 million barrels per day, a decline of 1.3 million barrels per day. The declines resulted from the Iran conflict and regional instability.

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• Trump threatens to cut off all trade with Spain over refusal to permit US military strikes on Iran from jointly operated bases — Trump threatened to cut off all trade with Spain after the Spanish government refused to grant the US permission to use two jointly operated military bases in southern Spain for US strikes on Iran. The threat represents Trump's use of economic coercion to override the sovereign decisions of an allied nation.

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• Energy Secretary Wright disclosed element of surprise was essential to Iran military strikes — Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated on ABC that the administration was aware military action would cause increased oil prices for Americans. When asked why the president is now seeking help from other nations to open the Strait of Hormuz, Wright responded that "the element of surprise was essential so we could as quickly as possible destroy their military capabilities," indicating the initial strikes were conducted without advance coordination with allies or public preparation.

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• Trump claimed formation of international naval coalition to reopen Strait of Hormuz without verification from allied nations — Trump posted claims that China, France, Japan, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and other nations would join a U.S. naval coalition to keep the Strait of Hormuz open after Iran blocked it. No evidence was presented that these countries had actually committed to such action. The claim contradicted Trump's earlier statement that the U.S. did not need allies in military operations. Geopolitical analysts noted the implausibility of China joining a U.S.-led coalition against Iran given their deep economic and strategic ties.

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• Trump administration eased oil sanctions to benefit Russia during Iran War — The Trump administration eased sanctions on Russian oil, allowing millions of barrels sitting on ships to go to India, with the financial benefit flowing to Russia as it wages war in Ukraine. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz acknowledged the policy but framed it as "common sense," while Energy Secretary Chris Wright stated the U.S. is "temporarily suspending some sanctions on Russia to make Russian oil available."
• Trump administration temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian oil shipments — The Trump administration temporarily lifted sanctions on Russian oil shipments in an effort to stabilize oil markets and reduce economic fallout from the Iran war. The move allows Russia to sell approximately 128 million barrels of oil previously loaded onto tankers facing U.S. restrictions. Brent crude futures closed above $100 per barrel for the first time since 2022. Experts estimate Russia has already received approximately $150 million per day from increased oil sales since the U.S. attacked Iran two weeks prior, with Moscow earning an estimated $1.9 billion windfall in taxes on oil exports.
• Trump administration lifted sanctions on Russian oil shipments — Late on March 13, the Trump administration lifted sanctions on Russian oil shipments, permitting sales to buyers worldwide until April 11. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cited the need to ease skyrocketing oil prices caused by Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The move contradicts G7 consensus; German Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated G7 heads had urged Trump not to ease sanctions, noting there was a price problem but not a supply problem, and questioned the U.S. government's additional motives.

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• U.S. Development Finance Corp Faces Shortfall for Strait of Hormuz Insurance — The U.S. Development Finance Corp is $200 billion short of the capacity needed to underwrite insurance policies for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump has ordered the DFC to insure vessels in the region, but raising the liability cap would require congressional action. The shortfall affects global oil supply and trade.
• Treasury issues 30-day waiver allowing Indian refiners to purchase Russian oil — Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced a temporary 30-day waiver permitting Indian refiners to purchase Russian oil to maintain global oil supply flows. The waiver signals a shift in sanctions enforcement to address energy market disruption caused by the Middle East conflict. Bessent stated the US anticipates India will increase purchases of US oil in return.

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• Spain's foreign minister denied White House claim that Spain reversed position on Iran military operations — Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Luis Albares categorically denied a claim made by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt that Spain had reversed its position and agreed to allow the U.S. to use Spanish military bases to launch attacks against Iran. Albares stated that Spain's position on the Middle East war, attacks on Iran, and use of Spanish bases "has not changed." Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez separately stated opposition to war and violations of international law.

Supporting reports

• Oil prices surged 10% following military strikes; analysts predict further increases — Brent crude oil jumped 10% to approximately $80 per barrel on Sunday following the US-Israel strikes on Iran and Iranian retaliation. Oil traders and analysts predicted prices could climb as high as $100 per barrel. Insurance costs in the Strait of Hormuz skyrocketed, and war risk insurers submitted cancellation notices for policies on ships in the strait. At least 250 ships dropped anchors across the Middle East Gulf and coasts of Oman and the UAE. Maersk suspended all shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Regional leaders warned the US that $100-per-barrel oil represents a "clear and present danger."
• Strait of Hormuz disrupted; shipping halted and oil prices surge — The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly 20% of global oil passes daily, became functionally disrupted as the IRGC broadcast warnings that passage was not allowed. More than 200 vessels including oil tankers and liquefied gas carriers anchored in and around the strait. Major tanker owners, oil and gas majors, and trading houses suspended shipments. Japan's three largest shipping companies—Nippon Yusen, Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, and Kawasaki Kisen—halted operations through the strait. Container lines diverted away from highest-risk corridors. War-risk insurance costs for tankers jumped 25 to 50 percent. Brent crude surged roughly 8% on open with spikes around 10% reported in the immediate reaction window. S&P Global Platts began reviewing deliverability and pricing mechanics for Middle East crude. Analysts warned prices could reach $100 or more if disruption persists. The UAE Capital Markets Authority ordered both stock exchanges closed March 2–3.
• U.S. Crude Oil Prices Surge Amid Middle East Conflict — U.S. crude oil prices have experienced their largest weekly gain in history, with West Texas Intermediate futures rising 12.21% to $90.90 per barrel. The increase is attributed to disruptions in global fuel supplies due to escalating conflict in the Middle East. This surge in oil prices is expected to have significant economic and political repercussions.
• US crude oil posts largest weekly gain in futures history — US crude oil (West Texas Intermediate) surged 12.21% ($9.89) to $90.90 per barrel on Friday, posting its largest weekly gain in futures trading history dating to 1983. Global benchmark Brent crude rallied 8.52% ($7.28) to $92.69 per barrel. The escalating war in the Middle East triggered major disruption to global fuel supplies. US crude soared 35.63% for the week; Brent jumped 28%.
• Qatar energy minister warns oil could reach $150 per barrel — Qatar's energy minister Saad al-Kaabi warned that oil prices could double to more than $150 per barrel if the Middle East conflict continues. Qatar expects all Gulf energy producers to declare force majeure and shut down exports within weeks. Al-Kaabi stated that if the war continues for weeks, global GDP growth will be impacted, energy prices will rise globally, product shortages will occur, and factories will be unable to supply, creating a chain reaction of economic disruption.
• Strait of Hormuz traffic down 92%; 20 million barrels per day frozen — Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has declined 92%. Nearly 20 million barrels per day of oil supply are currently frozen. Over the past 24 hours, only two commercial vessels passed through the Strait, and not a single oil tanker. Insurance companies have canceled coverage for global ocean commercial tonnage due to military risks in the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and Iranian territorial waters. Europe and Asia, critically dependent on Persian Gulf oil, are experiencing the biggest impact, with fuel flows down 90% and bunker fuel prices in Singapore up 40%.