US Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Thursday that the US military is currently “not ready” to escort oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. All military assets are focused on strikes against Iran, leaving critical shipping lanes unprotected amid escalating tensions.
The warning comes after attacks on two oil tankers off Iraq killed at least one person. The incidents briefly pushed global oil prices above $100 per barrel, raising concerns about energy security and supply disruptions in the Gulf region.
Read more: Attacks on ten vessels disrupt traffic in Hormuz Strait
President Donald Trump had previously promised US Navy escorts for tankers and reinsurance for shipping companies, but no escorts have been deployed so far. Wright said such measures are “likely” to begin by the end of the month once assets are available.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that the war has created the largest global oil supply disruption in history. US and Israeli strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure have also disrupted crude supplies, prompting the release of emergency reserves totaling 400 million barrels.
Read more: US warns Iran over Hormuz blockade
Of this, the United States will release 172 million barrels under a swap arrangement with its Strategic Petroleum Reserve, returning 200 million barrels later. Wright said meetings at the Pentagon were ongoing to plan possible naval escorts, but the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed for commercial shipping.