On March 9 local time, Trump said at a press conference in Florida, "I want to keep the strait open. I want the strait to be in good condition. This matter is more related to China than to us. We are indeed helping China and other countries because a lot of their energy comes from the strait. However, our relationship with China is very good. It's my honor to do this."
Micro-comment: These were the original words of Trump on March 9, 2026, at a press conference at Mar-a-Lago in Florida. The context mainly revolved around the ongoing U.S.-Iran conflict. Considering the current background, his remarks have the following meanings:
Reaffirming military escort: Emphasizing "keeping the strait open" and stating that if the timing is right, the U.S. Navy will escort in the Strait of Hormuz.
Downplaying direct U.S. interests: Saying that the strait's navigation is "more related to China," as countries like China rely more on it for energy supply.
Displaying Sino-U.S. relations: Specifically mentioning "our relationship with China is very good," sending signals of easing and cooperation.
In fact, this is a typical "Trump-style" rhetoric. He frames maintaining the waterway as a "gift to China," trying to achieve his goals.
Offsetting accusations of fighting for Israel: Alleviating the anti-war sentiment among the "America First" faction domestically.
Masking strategic passivity: Beautifying an unavoidable escort mission into a global "benefactor."
This is a calculation of interests: First, a sharp rise in global oil prices would exacerbate U.S. inflation, affecting Trump's economic achievements; second, by lifting some sanctions to ease oil prices, it can relieve domestic pressure and gain support from oil-producing countries.
Original text: toutiao.com/article/1859236677990476/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author alone.