The standoff between the United States and Iran over the Strait of Hormuz shows signs of becoming protracted. The U.S. has warned that it could maintain its naval blockade against Iran indefinitely and has hinted at further economic sanctions. Iran, in turn, is asserting its control over the Strait.
On August 13, during a visit to Panama, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told reporters, "The U.S. Navy can maintain this blockade indefinitely because we can continue to rotate our ships." The U.S. is currently blocking Iranian vessels and ports.
In preparation for a long-term operation, the U.S. military is also rotating aircraft carriers. According to reports from Reuters and the Associated Press, the USS George Washington is en route to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, which has been stationed in the region for an extended period.
Economic pressure is also set to increase. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Besant stated in an interview with conservative outlet Newsmax that he would announce additional measures next week, warning of unprecedented levels of economic isolation.
Iran is pushing back against these actions. According to Reuters, Hossein Taeb, commander of Iran's Basij militia, claimed, "The Strait of Hormuz is under Iranian management and control." The Iranian military's unified command also stated, "No vessel can pass through the Strait without our approval," in response to President Donald Trump's assertion the previous day that the U.S. fully controls the Strait.
Amid this escalating tension, actual attacks have occurred. The Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) reported that two of its vessels were attacked while transiting the Strait of Hormuz, although there were no casualties. The UAE's Foreign Ministry has identified the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as the perpetrator.
Pro-Iran Houthi rebels in Yemen also claimed to have attacked Saudi Aramco's Jizan refinery with two drones. Reuters cited Houthi-operated Saba News in its report. The Saudi government has not yet issued a response.
As disruptions to oil transport in the Middle East continue, the burden on oil supply is increasing. The International Energy Agency (IEA) projected in its August oil market report released on August 12 that global oil supply would decrease by an average of 4.3 million barrels per day this year, a reduction of 600,000 barrels more than previously forecasted.
Global oil inventories also fell by an average of 2.2 million barrels in July, totaling a decrease of 69 million barrels. Overall inventories have dropped below 7.9 billion barrels, marking the lowest level since April 2025. Cumulatively, the reduction since the onset of the conflict has reached 410 million barrels.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.