With a tenuous two-week ceasefire in the war between the US and Iran, the Strait of Hormuz is the center of attention. The Iranians are threatening to turn it into a permanent tollbooth, although they have agreed to allow some seaborne traffic — in “coordination” with their armed forces — while hostilities are temporarily suspended. US President Donald Trump says Tehran must reopen it permanently or face civilizational annihilation, and wants America’s European allies to take responsibility for the strait’s long-term future.
One way or another, the Strait of Hormuz will reopen to traffic. But returning to the pre-conflict status quo of unfettered passage is extremely unlikely. One forward-looking solution: an international naval coalition that would ensure freedom of navigation for commercial and military traffic.