U.S. Navy Warns Escorts “Too Dangerous” After Trump Promises Hormuz Protection
The U.S. Navy is telling global shipping companies it cannot escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz right now, even as President Donald Trump publicly warns Iran the U.S. will ensure the route stays open.
That gap between political threats and military reality is creating confusion across the global energy market.
According to Reuters and maritime security sources, the Navy has refused near-daily requests from shipping firms asking for escorts through the narrow waterway, saying the risk of Iranian attacks is currently too high.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned they will target ships attempting to pass through the strait, and several vessels have already been hit during the escalating conflict.
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At the same time, Trump has repeatedly said the United States and its allies would escort tankers “if needed” to keep oil flowing.
The White House also had to walk back a claim by the U.S. energy secretary that a tanker had already been escorted. The post was deleted and officials confirmed no escort mission had taken place.
Roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply normally moves through the Strait of Hormuz, meaning even partial disruptions can ripple through global markets.
For now, the result is a standoff: the White House threatens action, the Navy warns the risk is too high, and the shipping industry is left waiting.
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