Commentary: Why Trump’s blockade in Strait of Hormuz is an astute tactical move in push for deal

REMOVING IRAN’S POWER IN THE STRAIT

If enforced effectively, the naval blockade will help the US regain the initiative from Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz. It removes Tehran’s power in deciding which ships to let through, especially in extracting fees in exchange for safe passage through Iranian territorial waters.

A blockade will prevent weapons and other assistance reaching Iran by sea, while also ensuring Iran is unable to pay for external support with relatively cheap oil. 

In particular, the US will also try to ensure that China does not benefit from a steady flow of energy exports via the strait – Beijing is the top buyer of oil passing through the strait (nearly 40 per cent) and also the largest buyer of Iranian oil. This could serve as leverage in China-US negotiations, as the summit between Presidents Xi Jinping and Trump in May looms.

With control of the strait, Iran tried to stretch out talks, in the hope of weakening US resolve to accept a deal – one which would enable Iran to resume its nuclear ambitions and rebuild military assets. 

The US, however, is determined to see that Iran agrees to tough terms or face the resumption of war. The US Navy has deployed two destroyers, drones and helicopters to clear mines in the strait. The Gulf states, as well as France and the United Kingdom are expected to join the mine-clearing operation. Despite threats to destroy the ships, Iran has not attacked them.