US Prepares to Safeguard Shipping as Tensions Rise in Strait of Hormuz

WASHINGTON — The White House says the U.S. is prepared to protect commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions with Iran intensify.

The Strait of Hormuz represents one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, oil flows through the strait averaged approximately 20 million barrels per day in 2024, accounting for roughly 20% of global petroleum liquids consumption. This strategic importance means that any instability in the region triggers immediate market reactions.

Recent developments have heightened concerns about potential supply disruptions. Reuters reported that at least three tankers were damaged in the Gulf as the conflict escalated, fueling fears about the security of energy shipments. On Tuesday, Brent crude prices jumped 4.7%, settling at $81.40 a barrel, as traders factored in higher supply risks amid the intensifying conflict.

Such oil price movements typically filter down to consumers at the gas pump. GasBuddy analysts are already warning of near-term price increases, with analyst Patrick De Haan suggesting drivers could see gasoline prices rise by 10 to 30 cents per gallon in the coming days.

The potential for more serious disruptions raises significant concerns for global energy markets. While the EIA notes that most oil transiting through Hormuz is destined for Asian markets, with China and India being among the largest recipients, the implications extend far beyond the region.

For American consumers, the situation presents a complex reality. Despite the United States’ substantial domestic oil and gas production, energy remains a globally traded commodity. Even though the EIA estimates that the U.S. receives only about 2% of its total petroleum liquids consumption through the Strait of Hormuz (approximately 7% of total U.S. crude oil imports), global price fluctuations inevitably influence domestic energy costs.

Historical precedent suggests that while threats to the strait are not unprecedented, a complete shutdown has never occurred in modern times. According to a Columbia Center on Global Energy Policy report, Iran has repeatedly threatened to disrupt shipping through the strait, but a prolonged, complete closure has never materialized. Even during major conflicts, traffic has continued, albeit under heightened risk conditions.

The most significant historical parallel comes from the 1980s “Tanker War” during the Iran-Iraq conflict. During this period, ships were attacked and damaged, but shipping activities never completely halted. The international response then provides a template for current contingency planning.

The United States responded to the Tanker War by implementing a protective escort strategy. In March 1987, the U.S. agreed to transfer Kuwaiti tankers to the American flag, and by July 1987, the U.S. Navy launched Operation Earnest Will, providing naval escorts to tankers traversing the Persian Gulf. This approach effectively maintained the crucial shipping route despite the high-threat environment.

Today, similar measures are being considered. President Trump has indicated that the U.S. Navy would escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz if necessary, essentially reviving the strategy employed during Operation Earnest Will. This commitment underscores the critical importance of keeping this vital maritime passage open for global commerce.

Energy analysts note that even without a formal closure of the strait, the heightened risk of attacks can significantly increase shipping and insurance costs, ultimately tightening supply and pushing prices higher. These economic ripple effects would extend far beyond the Middle East, potentially affecting consumers worldwide.

As tensions continue to simmer, global markets remain vigilant, aware that disruptions to this vital waterway could have far-reaching implications for energy security and economic stability across multiple continents.