President Donald Trump has resumed airstrikes and maritime blockades against Iran. This escalation has drawn criticism within the U.S. for lacking clear objectives and an exit strategy, with experts arguing that military pressure alone is insufficient to weaken Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz.
Political news outlet The Hill and a commentary from the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) noted on July 13 that "while President Trump is ramping up his offensive, he has not provided a solution that could change the course of the war."
Trump announced the restoration of a U.S.-led maritime blockade against Iran and stated that a 20% fee would be imposed on cargo passing through the Strait of Hormuz. He claims that the U.S. should be compensated for ensuring safe passage as the "guardian of the strait."
However, this stance contradicts the U.S.'s previous position emphasizing the importance of free navigation in international waters. Last month, Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the possibility of Iran imposing tolls, stating, "No country can charge fees in international waters."
Last week, Trump also officially notified Congress of the resumption of military operations against Iran. The administration views this as a restart of a 60-day period during which military actions can continue without congressional approval.
Nevertheless, assessments indicate that airstrikes and blockades alone are unlikely to force Iran into submission. Despite suffering significant damage, Iran has maintained its grip on the Strait of Hormuz, which is a crucial leverage point for raising international oil prices and pressuring the U.S. and its Gulf allies.
Airstrikes conducted by the U.S. and Israel since late February have not succeeded in toppling the Iranian regime or compelling it to abandon its nuclear and missile programs. A memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed last month has effectively collapsed amid ongoing attacks on Iranian vessels and U.S. retaliatory strikes.
The economic burden is also increasing. Renewed clashes have caused international oil prices to surge by over 9% in a single day, leading to declines in the New York stock market. Rising oil prices could adversely affect the Trump administration as it approaches the midterm elections in November.
The Hill analyzed that "the Trump administration continues to make tough announcements to project control over the situation, but the actual options are limited." The CFR commentary also pointed out that while airstrikes and blockades may weaken Iran's military capabilities to some extent, they are unlikely to neutralize Iran's ability to use the Strait of Hormuz as a tool to pressure the global economy.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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