US Navy to Escort Ships in Strait of Hormuz

WASHINGTON, United States

The United States is preparing to deploy naval escorts for commercial vessels traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes, as tensions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran continue to disrupt maritime traffic.

U.S. officials said the escort plan is designed to protect oil tankers and cargo ships moving through the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman, where roughly 20 percent of the world’s oil supply normally passes each day. The announcement follows growing security concerns after threats and attacks linked to the escalating regional conflict forced many shipping companies to pause or reroute voyages through the Gulf.

President Donald Trump said the United States is ready to ensure the “free flow of energy” through the strategic corridor. The proposed operation would involve U.S. Navy warships accompanying commercial vessels, particularly oil tankers, during their passage through the strait to reduce the risk of attacks and reassure global shipping companies.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed that naval escorts could begin once military commanders determine that conditions allow for safe operations. Officials indicated the program would be implemented “when reasonable,” depending on the evolving security situation in the Gulf.

The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. Oil exports from major producers including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates rely heavily on the route to reach global markets. Any disruption in traffic through the strait can quickly influence global oil prices and energy supplies.

In recent days, heightened conflict in the region has increased fears of attacks on shipping. Insurance premiums for vessels entering the Gulf have surged, and some shipping companies have delayed voyages altogether. As a result, a number of tankers have been reported waiting outside the Persian Gulf while companies assess the risks of sailing through the strait.

To address these concerns, U.S. officials are also exploring financial protections for shipping firms. Reports indicate Washington is considering the creation of a multi-billion-dollar maritime insurance backstop, potentially worth up to $20 billion, to help cover war-related risks for vessels operating in the Gulf region.

Iranian officials have responded by warning that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps maintains strong control over the strait and has cautioned foreign vessels about operating in the area during the current conflict. Those warnings have added to uncertainty for shipping companies and global energy markets.

Military analysts note that escort operations in the Strait of Hormuz are not unprecedented. During the 1987–1988 Iran-Iraq War, the United States carried out Operation Earnest Will, escorting Kuwaiti oil tankers through the Gulf to protect them from Iranian attacks in what became the largest naval convoy mission since World War II.

For now, U.S. naval commanders are closely monitoring developments in the region. The escort plan, if implemented, is expected to involve coordination with allied navies and regional partners already operating in Gulf waters.

Officials say the primary objective remains ensuring that global energy supplies can move safely through the Strait of Hormuz, a route that continues to play a central role in the world’s energy security.

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