In a recent podcast, Vice President JD Vance articulated that the United States is employing economic pressure as a primary tool against Iran, a sentiment echoed by President Donald Trump, who described upcoming sanctions as the 'most crushing economic operation ever taken against any country.' Vance noted that while U.S. pump prices remain high, they have decreased significantly due to increased oil and gas exports from the Strait of Hormuz, aided by U.S. military presence.
However, recent data from trade intelligence firm Kpler indicates that ship traffic through the Strait has dropped sharply, with only 10 crossings on Monday compared to an average of 130 daily before the conflict.
Vance pointed out that Iran's ability to control access to the Strait is a critical leverage point, and he expressed confidence in the U.S. strategy to alleviate energy prices for Americans. He framed the situation as a choice for Iran between enduring economic hardship or pursuing a better relationship with the West