The United States is currently allowing Iranian oil tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz, according to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who spoke to CNBC on March 16, 2026 [1]. Bessent stated, 'The Iranian ships have been getting out already, and we've let that happen to supply the rest of the world,' highlighting the U.S. policy to ensure global oil supply despite ongoing regional tensions [1].
Tanker traffic through the Strait has significantly decreased due to Iranian attacks on commercial ships in the Persian Gulf. Nevertheless, Iran continues to export millions of barrels of oil through the Strait, even with a substantial U.S. Navy presence in the area [1]. Bessent noted that tankers supplying India have successfully transited the Strait, and the U.S. believes some Chinese ships are also exiting the Gulf [1].
The Trump administration anticipates that tanker traffic will increase before U.S. Navy and allied forces begin escorting commercial ships, suggesting a potential easing of supply constraints in the near future [1]. Bessent commented, 'We think that there will be a natural opening that the Iranians are letting out, and for now we're fine with that. We want the world to be well supplied,' indicating a pragmatic approach to maintaining oil flow amid geopolitical risks [1].
No specific market reactions, analyst opinions, or forward-looking statements beyond Bessent's remarks were provided in the source article [1].
CONCLUSION
The U.S. is permitting Iranian oil tankers to transit the Strait of Hormuz to support global oil supply, despite ongoing regional security concerns. While tanker traffic has declined due to Iranian attacks, exports continue, and the administration expects increased traffic ahead of planned naval escorts. The policy aims to stabilize oil supply, but no immediate market reactions were discussed.