US President Donald Trump said the Strait of Hormuz must remain open at all times, stressing that countries relying on the passage of their oil through the waterway should take part in defending it and ensuring its security.

Speaking to a Hebrew-language channel, Trump said the United States “gets nothing from the Strait of Hormuz” but would assist countries willing to work toward reopening and securing the vital shipping route.

He also called on NATO and China to contribute to efforts aimed at restoring navigation through the strait.

Trump added that the military operation in Iran is progressing very well.

Meanwhile, The New York Times quoted US and Israeli officials as saying that Iran’s readiness and capability to choke the Strait of Hormuz and expand the war were greater than previously expected.

The newspaper also reported that during a meeting in the Oval Office last week, a frustrated Trump pressed Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Cain about why the strait had not been reopened quickly.