Donald Trump has directed the deployment of thousands of U.S. Marines to the Strait of Hormuz as escalating tensions in the conflict with Iran continue to affect global energy supply routes.
The deployment was approved by the U.S. Secretary of Defense, Pete Hegseth, who authorised the dispatch of an amphibious ready group made up of warships and approximately 5,000 Marines. The naval group includes the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli (LHA-7), alongside the transport dock ships USS San Diego (LPD-22) and USS New Orleans (LPD-18).
In addition, the United States is sending the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, a rapid-response force stationed in Japan that is trained for quick military operations and emergency missions.
The deployment will also introduce advanced aircraft into the region, including the F‑35 Lightning II fighter jets, as part of a strengthened military presence. Officials stated that the request for these reinforcements came from United States Central Command (CENTCOM), the command responsible for overseeing American military activities across the Middle East.
The move follows growing instability in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes. Around 20 percent of global oil and gas supplies typically pass through the narrow channel connecting the Persian Gulf to the open sea. However, shipping activity has sharply declined following attacks on cargo vessels and oil tankers linked to the ongoing conflict.
During a briefing, Hegseth emphasised Washington’s intention to reduce Iran’s military strength.
He said: “We will defeat, destroy, disable Iran’s military.”
He added: “But it’s not just that Iran doesn’t have a functioning Air Force, or that their entire Navy is at the bottom of the Persian Gulf, or their missile force is shrinking daily.”
Hegseth continued: “They also don’t have the ability to build more. That’s the most important component I’d like to emphasise today.”
The instability in the Strait of Hormuz has caused significant turbulence in global oil markets. Insurance costs for vessels travelling through the area have risen sharply, while many shipping companies have begun avoiding the route entirely. Analysts say the disruption has already created one of the most significant supply shocks in modern energy markets.
The effects are being felt worldwide, with rising fuel prices impacting consumers across several countries as governments and energy agencies work to maintain stable supplies while the conflict persists.