WASHINGTON/DUBAI/ISLAMABAD — The United States is urging allies to form an আন্তর্জাতিক coalition to restore navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, as oil prices climb to their highest levels in more than four years amid fears of prolonged supply disruptions.
According to a State Department cable reviewed by Reuters, Washington is proposing a coordinated effort, tentatively called the “Maritime Freedom Construct,” to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels. The initiative would involve intelligence sharing, diplomatic coordination, and enforcement of sanctions linked to Iran’s oil exports.
The move comes two months into a conflict triggered by joint U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. The closure of the strait, a vital artery for roughly one-fifth of global oil and gas shipments, has sent energy markets into turmoil and intensified concerns over a potential global economic slowdown.
Oil prices have reacted sharply. Brent crude briefly exceeded $125 per barrel, more than doubling since the start of the year. The surge has fueled inflation and driven fuel costs higher worldwide, adding political pressure on governments, including the administration of Donald Trump.
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict remain stalled. The United States has imposed a naval blockade on Iranian oil exports in a bid to force Tehran back to negotiations, while Iran has vowed to continue disrupting shipping in the strait as long as it faces military and economic pressure.
Washington is also weighing further military action. Reports indicate that President Trump is scheduled to receive briefings on potential additional strikes aimed at compelling Iran to reengage in talks. Tehran has warned of escalatory responses, including what it described as unprecedented military action if blockades persist.
Efforts at mediation continue. Pakistan has facilitated indirect exchanges between the two sides and is encouraging direct communication to reduce tensions. However, key differences remain unresolved, particularly over Iran’s nuclear program. The United States insists on immediate limits, while Iran seeks to defer the issue until after hostilities end.
European powers, including France and United Kingdom, have discussed participation in a maritime coalition but have signaled reluctance to commit before a ceasefire is firmly in place.
The conflict has already taken a significant toll. A senior Pentagon official estimated U.S. military expenditures at $25 billion. Inside Iran, economic strain is mounting, with inflation nearing 66 percent and the national currency falling to record lows.
Control of the Strait of Hormuz remains central to the standoff. Iran has largely restricted transit to its own vessels since hostilities escalated, while the international community continues to regard the passage as open to global shipping.
With both sides maintaining hardline positions and global markets under strain, the prospects for a near-term resolution remain uncertain.
Si Venus L Peñaflor ay naging editor-in-chief ng Newsworld, isang lokal na pahayagan ng Laguna. Publisher din siya ng Daystar Gazette at Tutubi News Magazine. Siya ay isa ring pintor at doll face designer ng Ninay Dolls, ang unang Manikang Pilipino. Kasali siya sa DesignCrowd sa rank na #305 sa 640,000 graphic designers sa buong daigdig. Kasama din siya sa unang Local TV Broadcast sa Laguna na Beyond Manila. Aktibong kasapi siya ng San Pablo Jaycees Senate bilang isang JCI Senator.
- Venus L Peñaflor
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