Accordingly, when planning the current operation, the Pentagon and the National Security Council failed to sensibly assess this possibility and, above all, the consequences of it.

In secret briefings, senior Trump officials admitted “CNN” said they did not anticipate the possibility that Iran might close the strait in response to attacks. Three sources confirmed this to the US broadcaster. Officials described the Hormuz closure as “worst scenario”as it goes on.

Ex-US official on situation in Strait of Hormuz: “I’m speechless”

“CNN” spoke to several former US officials, diplomats and business leaders. The situation in the Strait of Hormuz leaves them all confused and in disbelief, according to the report.

One of the ex-officials, who served in both Republican and Democratic administrations: “I’m speechless. Planning to prevent exactly this scenario – impossible as it long seemed – has been a fundamental principle of U.S. national security policy for decades.”

US ‘not ready’ for tanker escort through Hormuz

The US government announced on Thursday evening that it was currently not in a position to escort tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. The Navy will be able to do this relatively soon, but it is not possible right now, Energy Minister Chris Wright told CNBC. “We’re just not ready yet.” All US military resources are currently aimed at destroying Iran’s offensive capabilities. He thinks it is likely that US Navy could escort some ships through the strait by the end of the monthsaid Wright.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told Sky News that he was convinced that the US Navy would do this as soon as militarily possible – “perhaps together with an international coalition”.

Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has almost come to a standstill as a result of the Iran war. The approximately 55 kilometer wide strait between Iran and Oman is considered one of the most important shipping routes for global oil exports. At the beginning of the month, US President Donald Trump offered to use his own navy to secure shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz – if necessary. By offering such an escort, his government is also trying to reassure global markets.