The US is still unrivaled in its ability to project military strength around the world, but Iran's success in blocking the Strait of Hormuz has raised tough question on America's role as protector of global trade.

Hegseth said the U.S. naval blockage in Iran is "impenetrable" and 125 million barrels of oil have now exited the Gulf, "showing that we control the strait."

Trump signals immediate opening of the geopolitically sensitive strait

US President Donald Trump announced ships are now safely navigating the Strait of Hormuz, following a digital agreement to end a 107-day war with Iran. He stated the waterway…