Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of thousands of U.S. Marines to the Strait of Hormuz as tensions from the ongoing conflict with Iran continue to disrupt global energy supplies.
The deployment was approved by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who authorised the movement of an amphibious ready group made up of warships and about 5,000 Marines. The group includes the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA‑7), along with the transport dock ships USS San Diego (LPD‑22) and USS New Orleans (LPD‑18).
The United States is also deploying the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, a mobile crisis-response force based in Japan that specialises in rapid military operations and emergency deployments.
The operation will bring advanced aircraft, including the F‑35 Lightning II, into the region as part of the expanded military presence. Officials said the request for the deployment came from United States Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees American military operations across the Middle East.
The move comes as the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most vital energy corridors — faces severe disruption. About 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments typically pass through the narrow waterway linking the Persian Gulf to the open ocean. However, maritime traffic has dropped significantly following attacks on cargo ships and tankers linked to the conflict.
During a briefing, Hegseth stressed that Washington intends to weaken Iran’s military capabilities, saying the U.S. aims to defeat and disable Iran’s armed forces and limit its ability to rebuild military assets.
The disruption in the Strait has thrown oil markets into turmoil. Insurance costs for ships passing through the region have surged, while many tankers have begun avoiding the route altogether. Analysts say the instability has already triggered one of the most significant supply disruptions in modern energy markets.
The situation is also having global ripple effects, with rising fuel prices affecting consumers in many countries as governments and energy agencies work to stabilise supplies while the conflict continues.
