Iran emerges as key player in Strait of Hormuz security

US President Donald Trump’s Request for Naval Assistance in Opening the Strait of Hormuz Goes Unanswered

The US Navy is not currently escorting vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, despite President Trump’s initial request for naval assistance. Instead, several countries have negotiated safe passage directly with Iran. This development underscores a new reality, where Tehran appears to be calling the shots on who can use the world’s most important energy waterway.

Iran controls the northern shore of the Strait of Hormuz, which carries 20 percent of global crude oil and natural gas supplies. The narrowest point is approximately 33km wide, making it vulnerable to Iranian attacks from the mainland. Since the start of the conflict, about 20 vessels have been attacked or threatened with attack.

Insurance companies have shown low appetite for risk, leading to a significant increase in insurance premiums and a near paralysis in maritime traffic. The rise in crude prices has also forced countries to release emergency reserves, with gas prices increasing by more than 40 percent since the war began.

Trump initially proposed ordering the US Navy to escort vessels through the strait but received noncommittal responses from several countries. Japan, Australia, and the United Kingdom have declined to send naval vessels, while Germany has stated that it is not involved in the conflict. However, other countries such as India, Pakistan, Turkey, and China have successfully transited the strait after negotiating with Iran.

Recent reports suggest that Italy and France are also reaching out to Iran for deals. The Financial Times has noted that a growing number of ships are passing through Iranian territorial waters, indicating that Tehran is allowing “permission-based transit”. This marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the conflict, with Iran appearing to dictate the terms of passage through the strait.

Source: Al Jazeera