US Safeguards Oil Tanker Passage Through Southern Strait of Hormuz
The US has organized the movement of oil tankers through the southern channel of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most dangerous maritime chokepoints. The operation, which began several weeks ago, involves coordinating with Gulf states to synchronize the movement of oil-laden and empty tankers.
Average shipments are estimated at nearly 10 million barrels per day, roughly half the export level recorded before the war began. On some nights, as many as 15-20 million barrels of oil have been transported through the strait.
A special team from the US Army headquarters at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, is coordinating the operation, which includes providing air cover with fighter jets to protect the tankers from Iranian drones and cruise missiles.
US officials believe that Iran has significantly lost its ability to influence shipping in the southern channel of the strait following a two-week campaign by US Central Command. Earlier this week, US forces shot down eight Iranian drones and two cruise missiles.