Hegseth Blames Allies for Iran War Burden as U.S. Prices Jump

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth blasted Western allies for free‑riding in the Iran war, calling the conflict a ‘gift to the world’ from Trump and insisting the U.S. naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz will stay in place for “as long as it takes” while urging allies to join the effort; he also noted NATO’s reluctance to commit ships and referenced internal Pentagon chatter about sanctioning Spain or reconsidering the Falklands stance. The Strait has been effectively shut since late February, fueling a global energy crunch as oil nears $105 a barrel and gas averages about $4.06 a gallon. Domestically, polls show rising costs hurting Trump and the GOP, with 73% of voters blaming Trump for higher prices and sizable shares of Republicans blaming him and congressional Republicans, while Democrats hold a polling edge on the economy and in swing House districts. Trump says he’s in no rush to end the conflict, even as diplomacy with Pakistan and Iran unfolds and Vice President JD Vance remains on standby.