How Trump’s ‘original oil guy’ boosted US-Israel ties and played down risks of Iran war

Fracking billionaire Harold Hamm, described by Donald Trump as his "original oil guy," has significantly influenced US-Israel ties and energy policy, particularly regarding Iran. Hamm co-chairs the Council for a Secure America (CSA), a non-profit relaunched in 2012 that advocates for US energy dominance and a hardline stance against Iran. The CSA, comprising US oil executives and former US and Israeli officials, has conducted numerous briefings with lawmakers and security experts, emphasizing Iran as an "existential threat" and promoting US oil production's role in stabilizing global markets.

"Iran must pay for its constant attempts to destabilize the Middle East."

Hamm's views, echoed by Trump, downplayed the impact of the US-Israel war on Iran on US oil prices, asserting that the US no longer relies on the Strait of Hormuz. Public-interest advocates note Hamm's consistent influence on Trump's energy policies, including the revocation of key climate rules. CSA's activities include taking oil executives to Israel to meet officials and issuing "War Reports" highlighting Iran's ties to militant groups.