Trump Signals Openness to Ending War Without Reopening Hormuz Strait
US strategy shifts toward military objectives and diplomatic pressure as key oil route remains shut
WASHINGTON, Mar 31: US President Donald Trump is considering ending ongoing military operations against Iran without immediately reopening the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal citing senior administration officials.
Sources indicated that recent internal assessments concluded that forcing open the critical maritime chokepoint could extend the conflict beyond the administration’s preferred four to six-week timeframe. Instead, the focus has shifted toward weakening Iran’s naval capabilities and missile infrastructure before scaling down hostilities.
Officials said Washington plans to rely more heavily on diplomatic channels to restore commercial shipping through the vital route. If diplomatic efforts fall short, the US may urge European and Gulf allies to take responsibility for ensuring maritime access in the region.
During a media briefing on March 30, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated that the operation was designed with a limited timeline in mind, noting that the campaign had reached its 30th day.
She also hinted at the possibility of greater involvement from regional partners, suggesting that countries such as Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia could play a role in supporting future efforts.
The conflict escalated following joint US-Israel strikes on Iran beginning February 28, prompting retaliatory actions that expanded tensions across the Gulf. The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial corridor for global energy supplies, remains effectively closed, severely disrupting the movement of commercial vessels and impacting international trade.
