Bolton Urges Force to Reopen Strait of Hormuz, Citing Iran's 36-Hour Closure
Updated
Updated · PBS NewsHour · May 26
Bolton Urges Force to Reopen Strait of Hormuz, Citing Iran's 36-Hour Closure
2 articles · Updated · PBS NewsHour · May 26
John Bolton said the U.S. should use military force—not negotiations—to reopen the Strait of Hormuz after Iran closed it and threatened force.
Bolton argued bargaining would legitimize Tehran's control of the waterway, letting it reopen or shut traffic at will and setting a precedent for other strategic chokepoints.
He pointed to a 36-hour "Project Freedom" window in which Maersk sent a cargo ship through and U.S. destroyers reportedly repelled Iranian drones and fast boats.
Bolton also backed regime change, saying renewed oil revenue would help Iran rebuild the Quds Force, missile and drone programs, and its nuclear effort.
The interview underscored a split with Gulf Arab states and shipping companies, which he said doubt Washington can keep the strait safely open over time.
Can America's military reopen the Strait of Hormuz without triggering a catastrophic global recession?
With oil prices threatening $200 a barrel, is a risky diplomatic deal the only way to save the world economy?
$114 Oil and Blocked Shipping: The 2026 Strait of Hormuz Crisis Reshapes Global Trade
Overview
The 2026 Strait of Hormuz crisis began when the United States and Israel started the Iran war, which changed the Middle East’s geopolitical landscape. In response, Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route, leading to a major international crisis. The closure caused immediate global economic fallout, with gas prices surging and energy markets thrown into turmoil. The International Maritime Organization sought clarification from Iran about which ships were considered hostile, highlighting the seriousness of the situation. The waterway remained closed for an extended period, disrupting global trade and straining supply chains worldwide.