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US Seeks Coalition to Reopen Strait of Hormuz
The United States is pushing for an international coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, closed amid ongoing conflict with Iran, as global oil prices reach levels not seen since 2022. A ceasefire has held since April 8, but the strait remains blocked, disrupting 20% of world oil and gas supplies.
May 1, 7:34 AM·2m read3 sources
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The United States is advancing plans for an international coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, according to a State Department cable. Oil prices have surged due to fears of prolonged disruptions to global fuel supplies. The strait has been closed for two months following U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran that began on February 28, 2026.
Brent crude reached over $126 per barrel on April 30, its highest since March 2022, after reports of potential fresh U.S. military strikes. Prices have doubled since the conflict started, contributing to global inflation and elevated fuel costs.
A ceasefire has been in place since April 8, but Iran continues to block the strait in response to a U.S. naval blockade of its oil exports. Tehran warned on April 29 of unprecedented military action against continued blockading of Iran-linked vessels.
Efforts to resolve the conflict remain at an impasse. Iran's latest offer would defer discussions on its nuclear program until the conflict ends and shipping issues are addressed. U.S. officials have shared observations on this proposal, and Iran has requested time until the end of the week to respond.
France, Britain, and other countries have discussed contributing but indicated willingness only after the conflict ends. Pakistan, acting as a mediator, is working to avoid escalation while facilitating message exchanges between the sides. A Pakistani source stated that Iran asked for time till the end of the week to respond to U.S. observations on its proposal.
The conflict has killed thousands and led to economic strain. In Iran, the currency hit a record low on April 29, with inflation at 65.8% for the month ending April 20.
The war has cost the U.S. military $25 billion so far, according to a senior Pentagon official. This marks the first official estimate of the financial impact. Iran has executed at least 21 people since the war began and arrested more than 4,000 on national security charges, U.N. human rights chief Volker Turk said on April 29.
