CENTCOM says the southern route through the Strait of Hormuz is still free and open for commercial ships

CENTCOM has confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains accessible for commercial shipping, with U.S. military forces providing protection. This announcement comes amid ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran over shipping security in the strategic waterway. The strait, a critical chokepoint for global oil transport, has seen fluctuating levels of commercial traffic due to heightened regional hostilities. The presence of U.S. naval and air assets underscores the high-alert environment in the area, as the U.S. seeks to ensure safe passage for vessels through the strait. Key Takeaways CENTCOM’s statement suggests that the Strait of Hormuz remains operational for commercial vessels, consistent with scenarios where traffic could normalize. Current market pricing indicates a 29.5% probability that strait traffic will return to normal by September 30, reflecting increased confidence following the U.S. military’s protective measures. The active military presence in the region suggests that the U.S. is committed to maintaining open shipping lanes despite ongoing tensions with Iran. What to Watch Markets are monitoring developments closely, as further incidents could impact the outlook f...