Iran's Oil Grip Fails as Trump's Resolve Proves Stronger
President Donald Trump's efforts to counter Iran's oil supply have paid off, proving that Tehran cannot sustainably block Gulf shipments. The Persian Gulf oil exports are now approaching prewar levels, ending the energy blackmail and pushing the Iranian regime closer to abandoning its nuclear ambitions.
The campaign has shown that Iran can no longer stop Gulf shipments as long as a leader stands up to its bullying. Crude exports from the Gulf fell from 18.3 million barrels a day in February to just 4.3 million in March, but are now averaging 13.1 million or about 72% of the prewar level.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright noted that one day last week saw 20 million barrels exit. Part of the turnaround is due to greater use of alternatives to the Strait of Hormuz, such as Saudi Arabia's East-West pipeline, which can carry up to 7 million barrels a day.
The US military action has also played a crucial role in undoing Tehran's efforts. With mines cleared and confirmed Iranian attacks on shipping down to zero, oil through the Strait this month hit its highest level (7.3 million barrels a day) since the war began.