WASHINGTON, D.C. (NPA), March 3, 2026 — U.S. President Donald Trump has instructed the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to offer political risk insurance and financial guarantees to safeguard maritime trade, particularly energy shipments, transiting the Gulf region.
The directive comes amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, now in its fourth day, involving U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran and retaliatory attacks across the Gulf. Iran has threatened to target cargo vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump announced:
“Effective immediately, I have ordered the United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC) to provide, at a very reasonable price, political risk insurance and guarantees for the financial security of all maritime trade, especially energy, travelling through the Gulf. This will be available to all shipping lines. If necessary, the United States Navy will begin escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. No matter what, the United States will ensure the free flow of energy to the world.”
Global energy markets have reacted sharply to the escalating tensions. Analysts warn that disruptions to production facilities and refineries following Iranian strikes could drive volatility in international energy prices. However, Trump’s move is viewed by some experts as a stabilising measure that may help contain price fluctuations during the ongoing military campaign, which U.S. officials anticipate could last up to four weeks.
