The Economist: Trump has no effective strategy for reopening Hormuz Strait

Pars Today – In a report highlighting Donald Trump’s strategic failure to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, The Economist wrote that, despite military strikes and new sanctions against Iran, the U.S. president has no effective means of restoring maritime traffic through the waterway.

According to Pars Today, citing IRNA, The Economist reported that five consecutive nights of U.S. military attacks have not altered Iran’s behavior. Instead, Iran has retained its ability to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz by relying on its long-range missiles and drones.

The report added that analysts believe that even if Iran’s coastal launchers were destroyed, the country would still be capable of continuing its attacks from inland positions.

According to the magazine, Trump—who had previously portrayed the signing of an agreement with Iran as a major achievement—now finds himself in a situation similar to that of three months ago, where neither military threats nor economic incentives appear capable of persuading Iran to reopen the strait.

The report further noted that oil tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has fallen to its lowest level since May 25, while Brent crude prices have risen by around 20 percent since July 6.

The Economist also argued that Trump’s efforts to secure international support have largely failed. Persian Gulf states, fearing possible consequences, have shown little willingness to participate in U.S. actions against Iran, while other countries have limited themselves to verbal calls for the reopening of the waterway.

According to the report, Iran continues to maintain control over the Strait of Hormuz, preserving it as a powerful source of leverage in future negotiations.

In conclusion, The Economist emphasized that Trump has no effective option—military or otherwise—for reopening the Strait of Hormuz.