US Navy May Target Iranian Oil Tankers—Escalation on the High Seas?

The Biden administration had its turn. Now, Trump’s back, and his team is ramping up “maximum pressure” on Iran once again—this time, by taking the fight to the open waters. According to Reuters, the White House is considering a plan to use the US Navy to intercept and inspect Iranian oil shipments, disrupting Tehran’s ability to sell crude and fund its nuclear program. This strategy echoes past US efforts to choke off Iran’s energy sales, a critical financial lifeline. But this time, officials are weighing a more aggressive approach: stopping tankers in high-risk chokepoints like the Malacca Strait—a move that could send shockwaves through global oil markets. Weaponizing Delays to Cripple Iran’s Trade The goal isn’t to fire missiles or…