Can Trump Really Reopen the Strait of Hormuz by Friday?

Watch on YouTube ↗  |  June 16, 2026 at 14:02  |  3:33  |  Bloomberg Markets
Speakers
Becca Wasser — Senior Fellow, CNAS

Summary

Becca Wasser, Bloomberg Economics defense lead, analyzes President Trump's claim that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen by Friday. She highlights uncertainty around mine clearing, narrow safe routes, and commercial shipper risk tolerance, while also assessing US military posture and munitions usage in the region.

  • Trump says Strait of Hormuz will be open by Friday with an Iran peace deal.
  • Wasser doubts it will be open as envisioned, citing unanswered questions.
  • A narrow southern route appears mine-free but limits ship traffic.
  • Full mine clearing depends on number of mines and international contributions.
  • European capitals show varying risk tolerance for mine-clearing help.
  • US military presence likely to remain unchanged for the foreseeable future.
  • Significant US munitions were spent during the Iran conflict, but additional support forces are available.
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