U.S. Military Asserts Strait of Hormuz Open Amid Iranian Attacks

The U.S. military's Central Command reiterated on July 21, 2026, that the Strait of Hormuz remains open for commercial vessel traffic despite ongoing Iranian attacks. CENTCOM reported that Iran has conducted over 30 attacks on commercial vessels since the onset of the conflict, which it claims has endangered mariners and disrupted navigation. President Trump has threatened to retaliate against Iranian infrastructure for further attacks on shipping. However, commercial traffic in the strait has reportedly decreased, reaching a three-week low, with only three vessels observed transiting on July 21. Dimitris Maniatis, CEO of maritime risk management firm Marisks, noted that while smaller vessels continue to operate, larger international merchant ships are avoiding the strait due to safety concerns. U.S. support for vessels taking the southern route through the strait is limited, and there are no guarantees of safe passage. The situation is further complicated by threats from Iran's Houthi allies in Yemen, who have announced intentions to block Saudi Arabia's access to the Red Sea ports. This has led to increased caution among commercial shipping operators, with reports of vessels turning back from the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as well. According to the U.N.'s International Maritime Organization, at least 17 commercial mariners have died in 61 attacks in the Strait of Hormuz since February 2026.