Questions rise as US claims deeper control of Strait of Hormuz

Questions are mounting about the real extent of U.S. control of the Strait of Hormuz as the Trump administration highlights its success in guiding tankers through a southern channel off Oman. While officials say the efforts have partially clawed back control from Iran, the waterway has been largely closed since late February and the payoff appears limited relative to what the Pentagon is spending. Brent crude was $94.39 going into this week. Researcher Petras Katinas said only three or four vessels a day passed in August, versus 35 inbound and 39 outbound in February. U.S. officials told Axios 40 tankers crossed Friday night and helped move about 16 million barrels, but outside estimates and analysts questioned those figures.