Key Points
- US military currently focused on striking Iran, not escorting tankers
- Energy Secretary Chris Wright says escort operations may begin later
- Previous claim of US escorting tankers was later deleted
- Maritime security and oil shipments remain under threat amid Iran war
ISLAMABAD: The United States military is currently “not ready” to escort oil tankers through the critical Strait of Hormuz because all assets are focused on striking Iran, Energy Secretary Chris Wright said Thursday.
“It’ll happen relatively soon, but it can’t happen now. We’re simply not ready,” Wright told CNBC.
“All of our military assets right now are focused on destroying Iran’s offensive capabilities and the manufacturing industry that supplies their offensive capabilities,” he added.
Wright added that it is “quite likely” such escorts would begin by the end of the month.
The statement follows a previous post by Wright, later deleted, which claimed that US warships were already escorting oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt clarified that the US has not yet escorted any ship.
The announcement comes amid the ongoing Iran war, which began with coordinated US and allied airstrikes on Iranian military and industrial targets.
The conflict has rapidly escalated, causing significant regional instability and widespread disruption to maritime shipping, especially through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital corridor for global oil trade.
The turmoil has contributed to soaring global oil prices, with crude briefly surging above $100 per barrel, and disrupted commercial shipping in the Gulf, where at least 19 vessels have been damaged.
Analysts warn that prolonged instability in the region could further strain global energy markets, exacerbate inflation, and trigger broader economic repercussions for energy-dependent nations.
US defence industry leaders are coordinating to replenish depleted munitions and maintain readiness for ongoing operations.
The maritime and energy experts emphasise that restoring stability in Gulf shipping lanes will be essential to prevent further disruption to the global energy supply.
