US Eyes Hormuz Escorts by April as Trump Downplays Oil Spike

March 12, 2026, 1:59 PM UTC

The US Navy could start escorting tankers through the Strait of Hormuz by the end of this month, Energy Secretary Chris Wright said, while President Donald Trump signaled he sees some benefits from the global oil price surge.

Wright said Thursday that US military assets were currently focused on destroying Iran’s offensive capabilities and weapons manufacturing, but could shift focus to protecting shipping traffic in the coming weeks.

“It will happen relatively soon, but it can’t happen now. We’re simply not ready,” Wright said on CNBC.

Asked if escorts could be provided by the end of the month, Wright said: ...

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