Summary
On social media, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright claimed the U.S. military escorted an oil tanker through the Strait of Hormuz during military operations against Iran. The post was quickly deleted, and a U.S. military official later stated that no such operations had begun. The situation comes amid tensions and rising oil prices as global oil trade through the strait is disrupted.
Key Facts
- Energy Secretary Chris Wright claimed the U.S. military helped a tanker pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
- The Facebook post was made at 1:02pm US Eastern time and deleted within about 30 minutes.
- Wright praised President Trump's administration for maintaining global energy stability.
- The Strait of Hormuz is a significant route for global oil, with 20% of the world's oil passing through it.
- The U.S. and Israel began military actions against Iran on February 28, affecting trade through the strait.
- President Trump announced support for vessels in the strait, including possible military escorts.
- General Dan Caine stated that the military had not started escort operations.
- Oil prices have surged, with the average U.S. price reaching $3.54 per gallon.
- Public opinion in the U.S. mostly opposes military action against Iran, as shown by recent polls.
