US Energy Secretary: Not Ready to Escort Oil Tankers in Hormuz

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said the United States is not yet prepared to begin naval escort operations for oil tankers transiting the Strait of Hormuz, as escalating tensions with Iran continue to disrupt global energy shipping routes.

The comments came as attacks on commercial vessels in the region have intensified, prompting shipping companies to halt or delay voyages through the strategic waterway. While the Trump administration previously indicated that the U.S. Navy could provide escorts to ensure the flow of oil, officials later confirmed that no tanker has yet been escorted through the strait.

According to U.S. officials, military planners are evaluating potential options to keep the shipping lane open, but the operational risks remain significant. The Pentagon and White House say preparations are ongoing as they coordinate with industry stakeholders and assess security conditions in the Gulf.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints, handling roughly 20% of global oil shipments under normal conditions. The current disruption has already caused tanker traffic to drop sharply, with many vessels waiting outside the Gulf amid fears of missile, drone and mine attacks. Analysts warn that a prolonged shutdown could trigger one of the largest oil supply shocks in decades.