The US military has conducted its largest wartime escort operation in the Strait of Hormuz, guiding 40 commercial vessels through the strategic waterway amid renewed fighting with Iran. The ships were carrying around 18 million barrels of oil, according to CNN, as American forces used air, naval and space-based assets to protect commercial traffic and counter Iranian threats.
US Military Protects Ships From Iranian Attacks
The escort mission took place as US and Iranian forces exchanged another round of strikes. American forces reportedly defended the commercial vessels against drone attacks and destroyed anti-ship cruise missiles that posed a threat to shipping. The operation reflects Washington’s growing focus on keeping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz moving despite the ongoing conflict.
Before the war, around 20 million barrels of oil a day passed through the waterway, making the strait one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
US Strikes Nearly 60 Targets Near Hormuz
The shipping operation was accompanied by a major US military offensive targeting Iranian capabilities around the strait. US forces struck nearly 60 targets, including:
• Air defence systems
• Radar installations
• Maritime assets
• Mine-laying equipment
• Communications facilities
US President Donald Trump said the strikes were also intended to prevent Iran from monitoring vessels travelling through the waterway.
US Plans To Keep Striking Iranian Assets
The US military is expected to continue operations around the Strait of Hormuz as Washington seeks to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten commercial shipping. According to CNN, US officials believe Iran can rebuild damaged military capabilities, making repeated strikes necessary to limit its ability to use the waterway as leverage. The US blockade has also reportedly prevented Iran from exporting oil since July.
Shipping Companies Remain Cautious
Despite the US military escort, shipping companies remain reluctant to resume unrestricted operations through the strait. Commercial operators are reportedly assessing voyages individually, while tanker chartering costs and insurance premiums have risen sharply because of the security risks. LNG carriers are facing particular concerns because an attack involving a missile, drone or mine could have severe consequences.
US Wants To Expand Shipping Route
The US military is currently escorting vessels through a route that has been cleared of mines and plans to expand the navigable corridor in the coming weeks. A wider route could give commercial ships more room to manoeuvre and potentially allow larger volumes of oil to pass through the strait. Many of the vessels involved in Tuesday’s operation reportedly switched off their transponders to reduce the chances of being detected. The ships were flagged to several countries, including Saudi Arabia and France.
Why Strait Of Hormuz Matters
The latest operation highlights the importance of the Strait of Hormuz to the global energy market. The narrow waterway connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and is a major route for oil and gas shipments.
