Trump reportedly against further strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure — but open to more if Iran impedes Hormuz, WSJ reports

Donald Trump does not want further strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure after Israel struck South Pars facilities, the Wall Street Journal reported on March 18, citing US officials. Trump had supported the South Pars strike as a message to Tehran regarding its blocking of the Strait of Hormuz — one of the war's key pressure levers. However, following the strike and the resulting surge in oil prices toward $110/barrel, Trump is now against any further attacks on Iranian energy sites. The restraint is conditional: the US president could be open to targeting more Iranian energy facilities 'depending on whether Tehran impedes traffic in the critical waterway', per the WSJ report. This creates a deterrent framework: Iran's continued Hormuz blockade could unlock further US-authorised energy strikes. The report signals a growing tension between Israel's desire to maximise pressure on Iranian economic infrastructure and Washington's concern about global energy market stability. Oil had already risen 40%+ since the war began, with Brent crude approaching $110/barrel on Wednesday.