Trump: US Doesn't Need Strait of Hormuz. Experts Disagree: 5 Reasons Why He's Wrong

• Donald Trump suggests winding down Middle East operations, claiming the US has "won" the war and doesn't need to police the Strait of Hormuz.
• The US shale boom has reduced direct American dependence on Gulf oil, making it less exposed to disruptions than in previous decades.
• Despite reduced direct imports, the US cannot escape global oil price shocks as 20% of global supply moves through Hormuz, impacting fuel costs and inflation.
• Prolonged instability in Hormuz, even without full closure, creates a "risk premium" on oil, supply disruptions, and higher insurance costs, affecting global markets.
• Iran holds a tactical advantage in Hormuz, capable of maintaining instability through mines and attacks, making securing the waterway difficult even after military objectives are met.