US Navy Admits Unable to Escort Tankers Through Strait of Hormuz

WASHINGTON — The United States Navy has formally informed the global shipping industry that it is currently unable to provide military escort for commercial vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The decision follows heightened risks of attack amid escalating US-Israel aggression against Iran.

According to Reuters, shipping companies have been submitting escort requests almost daily since the conflict began. However, US military officials have stated that the security situation is too dangerous to guarantee safe passage through this vital shipping corridor.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, channelling approximately one-fifth of total global oil supply. Since aggression against Iran began more than a week ago, shipping activity through the narrow strait has virtually ceased.

Hundreds of vessels have reportedly chosen to drop anchor whilst awaiting security guarantees. This disruption has triggered a surge in global energy prices, with Brent crude oil now approaching $90 per barrel—the highest level unseen since 2022.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) previously warned that it has closed the strait. Tehran has asserted that any vessel attempting to pass through risks becoming a target of attack. Several vessels have reportedly been struck since the escalation began.