The US president called for a global flotilla to head to the Gulf and force open the crucial shipping lane, as concerns grow that rising oil prices could trigger a global recession.

At least six ships have been hit by projectiles or explosive-laden boats in the Strait of Hormuz and the wider Persian Gulf over the last 48 hours.

“We have already destroyed 100% of Iran’s military capability, but it’s easy for them to send a drone or two, drop a mine, or deliver a close range missile somewhere along, or in, this waterway, no matter how badly defeated they are,” said Mr Trump in a post on Truth Social.

“Hopefully China, France, Japan, South Korea, the UK, and others, that are affected by this artificial constraint, will send ships to the area so that the Hormuz Strait will no longer be a threat by a nation that has been totally decapitated.”

The UK has not committed to joining the effort yet, but is considering possible options and discussing how to help defend ships from Iranian attacks with allies.