Trump could extend Iran blockade for ‘months if needed’: Official
An employee of Basra Oil Company, inspects the Nahr Bin Umar Oil and Gas Field on the outskirts of the southern city of Basra, Iraq, April 29, 2026. (AFP Photo)


The United States may extend its naval blockade on Iran for months more, oil executives were told in meeting with President Donald Trump, a White House official said Wednesday.

Participants at a White House meeting, which took place Tuesday and was first reported by Axios, discussed "the steps President Trump has taken to alleviate global oil markets and steps we could take to continue the current blockade for months if needed and minimize impact on American consumers," said the official, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"The President meets with energy executives frequently to get their feedback on domestic and international energy markets," the official said, with topics including "domestic production, progress in Venezuela, oil futures, natural gas, and shipping."

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was "host of the meeting," the official said, adding that Vice President JD Vance and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles also joined.

U.S. oil giant Chevron confirmed to AFP that its CEO, Mike Wirth, participated in the meeting.

Global crude prices soared on Wednesday following media reports that Trump was considering an extended blockade of Iran, with Brent jumping above $115 a barrel and U.S. benchmark WTI nearing $105.