The US military is actively shepherding commercial oil shipments through one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. US Interior Secretary Doug Burgum disclosed that American forces escort over 20 ships per night through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow passage between Iran and Oman through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil supply flows daily.
Burgum didn’t mince words about who’s creating the problem. He compared Iran’s operations in the region to “Somali pirates,” framing Tehran’s behavior as an attempt to leverage its geographic position to control global energy supplies.
The US Navy escort discussions began in March 2026, with active guidance of ships ramping up during the middle of the year. The fact that these convoys are happening at night adds a layer of operational seriousness that suggests the threat assessment is more than theoretical.
Iran has reportedly proposed collecting transit fees of roughly $1 per barrel on laden tankers passing through the strait, with a twist: the fees would be payable in Bitcoin. The proposal is tied to projected ceasefire windows, suggesting Tehran sees it as a way to monetize its geographic leverage during periods of reduced hostility.
