Seoul: U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that the United States is prepared to "take care of" the Iran-backed Houthi militia if they proceed with a blockade in the Red Sea. Concerns are rising that such a blockade could exacerbate global energy supply issues. According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump made his remarks during a joint press conference with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun at the White House. This follows the Houthi militia's announcement on Monday of a blockade on Saudi Arabia, which has heightened fears that the Red Sea, a critical alternative energy export route, could be at risk, especially amidst ongoing disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Trump emphasized the U.S.'s readiness to address any blockade attempts, referencing past military actions aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the Red Sea. He reassured that the U.S. has managed similar threats effectively before, stating, "We've had no problem with the Houthis after the operation. They've had no problem with us for a long time, including during this conflict." The potential blockade's implications are being closely monitored by South Korea and other nations dependent on Middle Eastern energy imports, given the possible impact on global energy markets. In the same meeting, Trump announced plans for military strikes on Pickaxe Mountain, an underground site in Iran suspected of concealing nuclear operations. He asserted that Iran is eager to engage in nuclear negotiations but emphasized that the U.S. is not interested until Tehran agrees to meaningful discussions. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, present at the meeting, compared Iran's military strategy to North Korea's, suggesting that Iran is building conventional military capabilities to advance its nuclear ambitions. He warned of the potential for escalated conflict, stating that any Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz would be met with a significantly stronger U.S. response. Hegseth reiterated that Iran has had ample opportunities to negotiate wi th the U.S., but ongoing hostilities between the two nations have fueled concerns of a possible escalation to full-scale conflict.