In a clandestine operation confirmed Friday, US forces have reopened the Strait of Hormuz after sea mines and heightened tensions had effectively shut the chokepoint. interior Secretary Doug Burgum revealed that nighttime convoys have moved more than 20 ships per night,allowing over 100 million barrels of crude oil to reach global markets. the move has already softened oil prices, with West Texas Intermediate crude trading around $85.5 per barrel, down from recent highs.

Over 100 million barrels and 22 ships in a single night: the scale of the covert operation

According to Burgum's statement on CNBC, ultra-large carriers holding up to 2 million barrels each have passed through the Strait of Hormuz, which typically carries about one-fifth of the world's oil supply. President Donald Trump claimed in a social media post that over 200 commercial ships and 100 million barrels have safely exited the strait under a 'secret mission,' with US forces guiding 22 ships through the waterway 'late at night, with no lights' to avoid detection. the operation involved minesweeping and naval escorts, freeing vessels trapped since late February when the US and Israel launched attacks on Iran.

Burgum said that non-Iranian oil flows through the strait have surged by approximately 50% so far this month, while the US maintains a blockade on Iranian shipments. data from Vortexa Ltd. shows that at least 1.8 million barrels exited the Persian Gulf during each of the first 10 days of June.

The 50% surge in non-Iranian oil flows and the effect on crude prices

The increased supply has put downward pressure on oil prices, offering relief to global consumers. West Texas Intermediate crude futures were trading around $85.5 per barrel on Friday, a notable drop from recent highs. Burgum told CNBC, "I think the markets figured that out before some of the tabloid press did, because you're starting to see a softening of oil prices." Analysts cited in the report note that while the immediate crisis is abating, the underlying geopolitical tensions remain high, and any renewed conflict could quickly reverse the progress.. The operation has also allowed other commodities and goods to flow more freely, benefiting supply chains beyond energy.

Behind the 1.8 million barrel daily exit : a fragile calm

Despite the operational success, the source leaves several critical questions unaddressed.. The report does not detail Iran's response to the US-led convoy or whether Tehran plans to retaliate. The long-term stability of the region depends on diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the confrontation with Iran, but no such initiatives are mentioned. Critics question the sustainability of such military interventions, as the full extent of the operation and its future implications will likely be debated as the situation evolves.. the reopening of the strait is a significant development, but the potential for renewed conflict remains a looming threat.