The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has stated that its naval blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is operating effectively, refuting claims by Iran that it maintains control over the critical maritime passage. Captain Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for the command, provided these remarks to Al Jazeera on September 17, 2026.
Hawkins emphasized that the United States retains operational authority over the strait, noting that approximately 900 million barrels of oil have successfully transited through the waterway since May. The figure was cited to demonstrate the continued flow of global energy supplies despite the military restrictions.
The comments come against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the region, with ongoing US-Israel military operations targeting Iran. While Iranian forces have attempted to restrict shipping in the Gulf, CENTCOM’s assessment indicates that the blockade imposed by American forces remains robust and functional.
This escalation is worrying. If the US truly blocks the strait, global oil prices will surely spike regardless of the current transit numbers.
Both sides claiming control is classic info war. The shipping data suggests the US holds the line, but Iran won’t admit defeat.
900 million barrels? Seems high for a ‘blockade.’ I wonder how many tankers were actually delayed or inspected.