The United States is weighing multiple military options to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as Iran's blockade of the critical waterway disrupts global oil shipments and drives up gasoline prices. President Trump has pushed allies to send warships to protect oil tankers, but diplomatic tensions have limited cooperation. The administration has escalated airstrikes against Iranian forces and installations in hopes of restoring free passage through the strait.

Military commanders are pursuing several strategies to eliminate threats to shipping, including destroying Iran's missiles and drones along the southern flank. Recent strikes have reportedly reduced Iran's missile launch capability by 90 percent, though significant firepower remains. The Navy is also considering sweeping the strait for mines, a weekslong operation that would put U.S. sailors at risk given Iran's arsenal of naval mines.

Additional options include targeting Iran's navy and fast boat fleet, with Air Force A-10 Warthogs hunting speedboats in contested sea lanes. The Pentagon has already destroyed or damaged over 120 vessels, including submarines. The most aggressive option would involve seizing Kharg Island, Iran's oil export hub, though this would require a risky amphibious landing by Marines. Trump has ruled out ground forces for now, stating he would 'do whatever's necessary to keep the price' of oil down.