US President Donald Trump speaks about the Iran war from the Cross Hall of the White House on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo)US President Donald Trump on Thursday said that under his leadership, the United States has become the number one producer of oil and gas in the planet, without even accounting for the millions of barrels it is receiving from Venezuela. He said the US doesn’t need oil from the Middle East and that nations that need it can buy US oil or “grab the Strait of Hormuz”.During his address to the nation, Trump said, the US is producing more more oil and gas than Saudi Arabia and Russia combined. “Because of the Trump administration’s policy, we are producing more oil and gas than Saudi Arabia and Russia combined and that number will soon be substantially higher,” he said.He added that United States imports almost no oil from Strait of Hormuz and stressed that countries that do should now take the lead to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.“To those countries that can’t get fuel, many of which refuse to get involved in the decapitation of Iran… build up some delayed courage, go to the Strait and just take it. Protect it.” Trump also called upon countries to buy US oil instead.The Express Global Desk at The Indian Express delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd