US steps up efforts to secure Strait of Hormuz, stabilise global oil flows

The United States has stepped up efforts to safeguard the Strait of Hormuz and ensure stable global oil supplies as its military operations against Iran continue. The White House said the campaign is aimed at protecting key energy routes vital to the global economy.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said US forces are focused on neutralising Iran’s capacity to disrupt shipping through the crucial waterway. As part of this effort, American strikes targeted Iranian military installations along the coastline. She noted that over the weekend, US forces hit an underground facility using multiple 5,000-pound bombs, destroying equipment such as anti-ship cruise missiles and mobile launch systems.

According to the White House, the broader offensive has significantly weakened Iran’s maritime strength, including the destruction of more than 140 naval vessels, among them mine-laying ships capable of threatening commercial routes. Leavitt said the operations are intended to secure safe passage for merchant vessels and reduce risks to global shipping.

However, she acknowledged that normal tanker movement through the strait has not yet been fully restored and did not provide a timeline, adding that the administration is working to resolve the situation as quickly as possible.

Alongside military action, Washington has introduced measures to stabilise global energy markets and limit price fluctuations. These include financial support mechanisms such as political risk insurance for oil tankers, regulatory waivers to ease supply constraints, and coordination with international partners to release additional oil reserves.

Domestically, steps have also been taken to boost fuel availability, including temporary relaxations on gasoline sales and fuel blending rules. The White House said multiple agencies are working together to keep oil prices in check amid concerns over supply disruptions.

Leavitt stressed that ensuring energy stability remains a central goal alongside military objectives, noting that the administration is continuously exploring new ways to maintain steady oil prices during the conflict.