American blockade of Hormuz. Do they want it open or closed?

For several weeks, Iran has effectively restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting the flow of nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply and sending global energy prices higher.

The situation has raised concerns that Iran is leveraging control of the strait as a powerful economic tool, influencing global markets by limiting access to one of the world’s most critical shipping routes.

The United States has responded by pledging to reopen the strait “one way or another,” either through diplomacy or military action. However, recent statements by President Donald Trump have introduced a new strategy: a targeted blockade.

According to U.S. officials, the plan is not to fully close the Strait of Hormuz, but rather to deny access to vessels connected to Iranian ports, including both Iranian and international ships operating under Tehran’s influence.

Currently, Iran has been accused of controlling passage through the strait, reportedly allowing ships through only under certain conditions, including permissions or financial arrangements.

The U.S. strategy aims to remove that leverage by preventing Iran from benefiting economically or strategically from controlling maritime traffic.

Analysts say this move is designed to strip Iran of one of its most significant bargaining tools in the conflict. If Tehran loses effective control over the Strait of Hormuz, its ability to influence global oil markets—and negotiations—could be significantly reduced.

The coming days will determine whether this approach stabilizes shipping routes or further escalates tensions in an already volatile region.