FX.co ★ Trump suggests keeping control of Iran’s oil reserves under Venezuelan scenario

US President Donald Trump said Washington could gain control over Iran’s oil resources similar to a recent deal concerning Venezuelan reserves. Speaking to reporters at his golf club in Doonbeg (Ireland), the White House chief allowed for a prolonged military and economic presence in the region if no political settlement is reached. “Ultimately, we will leave, unless we decide to stay and keep the oil, like in Venezuela. That’s their business. They can be happy,” media reported.

The president’s rhetoric echoes his recent statements about a major expansion of the United States’ energy resource base. Earlier, speaking in Dallas at the Republican National Convention ahead of the midterm congressional elections in November, Trump announced that he had effectively gained access to 65 billion barrels of oil in Venezuela, estimating that amount as 500 years of guaranteed energy supply for the US economy. Now the White House chief is applying a similar approach to the Middle Eastern military campaign, linking the conclusion to taking direct control of the enemy’s petroleum assets.

Such remarks come amid a sharp escalation of tensions in the Persian Gulf, where strikes on tankers and infrastructure have pushed Brent crude prices close to the $100-per-barrel mark. Experts note that signaling a willingness to place Iranian fields under external management is meant to exert maximum pressure on Tehran ahead of possible negotiations and to send a message to American voters that direct economic dividends can be gained from involvement in a protracted regional conflict.