Wright says U.S. can keep Hormuz open without Iran deal

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright declared on Wednesday that Iran will not be able to close the Strait of Hormuz, asserting that the American military can ensure oil continues to flow through the critical waterway regardless of the outcome of peace negotiations with Tehran.

Speaking at the Reuters ↘ 2.32% Global Energy Forum in New York, Wright said approximately 72 vessels carrying 20 million barrels of crude oil — roughly 20 percent of global consumption — transited the strait in the previous 24 hours. The figures represent a return to pre-war volume levels, though not pre-war normalcy in terms of ship traffic.reuters+1

Recovery Still Incomplete

Before the U.S.-Iran conflict erupted in late February, more than 120 vessels crossed the strait daily. The current count of 72 ships reflects ongoing constraints imposed by Iranian mines that have forced tankers onto alternative, military-escorted routes through the waterway's southern corridor.navalnews+3

Wright indicated that de-mining the strait's central corridor would likely take several more weeks before full normalcy returns. The U.S. military began mine clearance operations in April, and as recently as May, U.S. forces struck Iranian Revolutionary Guard boats caught laying new mines in the passage.apnews+2

Tensions Persist Despite Agreement

The remarks come days after Wright said on June 21 that oil flows were returning "back towards normal," noting 67 vessels had passed through the strait the previous day. Wright also said that "oil and natural gas flows through the strait have already stabilized, and they are likely to remain so, regardless of the outcome of negotiations with Iran".thehill

The U.S. and Iran reached a preliminary 60-day ceasefire agreement on June 15 that was expected to fully reopen the strait and lift the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports. But major disagreements remain over Iran's nuclear program and long-term control of the waterway. Tehran has maintained that management of the strait should be determined by Iran and Oman, while President Trump has demanded unrestricted passage with no tolls.reuters+1

On June 20, Iran briefly announced a closure of the strait citing Israeli military actions, a claim the U.S. military rejected. The episode underscored the fragility of arrangements that depend on diplomatic goodwill — and Wright's point that Washington is prepared to guarantee passage by force if necessary.wikipedia