Trump asserted U.S. dominance over
the vital oil shipping lane, calling the naval presence an effective blockade
and warning that Iranian ships without oil would be sunk. Gulf oil exports have
recovered to 23.3 million barrels per day, or 93% of 2025 averages, thanks to
pipelines, ship-to-ship transfers, and alternative routes even as Iran launches
anti-ship missiles near U.S. escorted vessels.
The strait, a key chokepoint for one-fifth of
global oil trade, remains tense, with Trump urging a quick end to the dispute
'the nice way or the not-so-nice way.' Markets show resilience, though higher
costs and escorts are needed to keep flows steady.
