U.S. seeks help from allies to reopen Strait of Hormuz as crude prices surge

The United States is working with allies to form an international coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which has been closed for two months amid ongoing conflict with Iran, disrupting 20% of global oil and gas supplies and driving crude prices to over $126 a barrel. Despite a ceasefire since April 8, Iran continues to block the strait in response to a U.S. naval blockade of its oil exports, while both sides exchange proposals on ending the conflict, including unresolved disputes over Iran's nuclear program. The U.S. is considering military options to reopen the waterway and has proposed the Maritime Freedom Construct to ensure post-conflict maritime security, as the war has already cost the U.S. $25 billion and severely impacted Iran's economy.