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US Energy Secretary Retracts Claim of Navy Escorting Tanker Through Strait of Hormuz

Washington: US Energy Secretary Chris Wright recently removed a post from the social media platform X, which claimed that the US Navy had "successfully escorted an oil tanker through the Strait of Hormuz." Wright's post also mentioned US President Donald Trump's efforts to maintain global energy stability during military operations against Iran, highlighting the navy's role in ensuring the continued flow of oil to global markets. The post was swiftly deleted without any explanation provided.

According to Anadolu Agency, a Fox News correspondent reported being informed by "well-placed military sources" that no US military assets had been involved in escorting tankers through the strategic waterway. The Energy Department did not respond to Anadolu's request for comment on the situation.

The Strait of Hormuz has been a focal point of energy market concerns following the announcement by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) about its closure to transit amid US-Israeli military actions against Iran on February 28. This vital corridor sees the transit of approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily, and its disruption has led to increased oil prices globally.

In response to the situation, US authorities have introduced political risk insurance for tankers operating in the Persian Gulf. They have also suggested the possibility of naval escorts for shipments if necessary, though no such actions have been confirmed. President Trump emphasized on Monday that any Iranian actions to halt the oil flow would be met with a significantly stronger response.

General Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, stated on Tuesday that the US is considering "a range of options" should there be a need to escort ships through the strait. President Trump reassured that the strait would remain "safe," indicating potential protective measures like risk insurance and possible naval accompaniment for tankers.