The United States is carrying out targeted strikes on Iranian maritime assets to reduce the pressure on international shipping in and around the Strait of Hormuz. Because of the tensions with Iran, the strait is currently effectively closed to much commercial shipping, putting one of the world’s most important trade routes under heavy pressure.
The American message is clear: the strikes are meant to roll back Iran’s ability to exert power at sea. According to the US military command for the Middle East, CENTCOM, the operations target capabilities that could be used to harass international shipping or endanger freedom of navigation.
A crucial route for world trade
The Strait of Hormuz has long been regarded as one of the most sensitive maritime chokepoints in the world. A large share of global oil and gas exports passes through this narrow passage between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Normally, about a fifth of the world’s traded oil passes through this corridor.
When security in the strait is under pressure, it has almost immediate consequences for energy markets and transport. Shipowners, insurers and traders react quickly to risks in strategic waters, which can push up transport costs and oil prices.
Shipping currently largely at a standstill
The current tensions have now led many shipping companies to avoid the route. Several tankers and cargo ships are waiting outside the strait or choosing longer alternative routes because the risk of incidents is considered too great.
As a result, the Strait of Hormuz has in practice come to a standstill for a large part of commercial shipping, even though there is no formal international blockade. The area does remain heavily guarded by navies from several countries.
US strikes aimed at Iranian maritime capability
Against that background, the American action appears aimed at two goals. The first is practical: taking out boats and other maritime assets that could be used for attacks, intimidation or laying sea mines.
The second goal is strategic. Through these operations, Washington wants to make clear that attempts to disrupt international shipping will not go unanswered.
Small, fast boats have long played an important role in Iran’s approach at sea. They can be used to approach commercial ships, put pressure on warships or carry out sudden attacks. By taking out these assets, the United States is trying to reduce Iran’s room for manoeuvre on the water.
Security at sea is also about threat
For international shipping, security is not only about preventing a direct attack. The mere threat of incidents already has major consequences.
When shipowners consider the risk too great, they choose other routes or wait outside the area. As a result, an important trade route can effectively come to a halt, even without daily attacks.
Future of the shipping route uncertain
Whether ships will soon be able to pass through the Strait of Hormuz again without major risks depends heavily on how the situation develops militarily and politically. The American strikes may reduce the immediate threat, but they do not remove the underlying tensions in the region.
For now, Washington seems mainly intent on preventing Iran from controlling the strait for a long period. By taking out Iranian maritime assets, the US is trying to create the conditions to eventually make this crucial shipping route open and safe again for international shipping.
