Military briefing: can the US reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force?
Financial Times 2026-07-23 04:00:21
Context: The United States is considering a military response to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that has been threatened by Iranian attacks. A renewed air campaign has been launched, but shipowners remain unconvinced that the route can be made safe. The situation is tense, with the US exploring options to secure the strait.
Key Facts
- The Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route through which a significant portion of the world's oil passes, has been subject to repeated attacks by Iran, prompting concerns about the safety of maritime traffic.
- Despite a renewed air campaign by the US, shipowners remain skeptical about the ability to guarantee safe passage through the strait, with many vessels continuing to take precautions to avoid the area.
- The US military is currently weighing its options for potentially reopening the strait by force, a move that would likely have significant implications for regional security and global energy markets.