16/06/2026
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16/06/2026
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WASHINGTON, Jun 16: US intelligence agencies have assessed that Iran has gained the ability to effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz whenever it chooses, giving Tehran a powerful tool capable of disrupting global energy markets, CNN reported on Tuesday, citing three sources familiar with the findings.
One source familiar with the intelligence assessment told CNN that the conflict had effectively given Iran "de facto control" over the strategic waterway, describing it as a capability potentially more impactful than a nuclear weapon.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route through which a significant share of the world's oil shipments pass, has long been viewed as a key pressure point in any confrontation involving Iran and regional powers.
A senior US official told CNN that Iran would only receive benefits under the reported framework agreement with Washington if it keeps the strait open and fulfills other commitments. The official said the US would scale back its blockade measures in line with Iran's restoration of normal maritime traffic.
Another source familiar with the agreement said Iran's attempts to disrupt energy flows through the strait had angered China and Gulf countries, warning that Tehran would face consequences for interfering with international energy shipments.
Iran to Receive Immediate Oil Sales Relief Under US Deal: WSJ
Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reported that a US-Iran agreement aimed at ending the conflict would allow Tehran to immediately resume oil and fuel sales, providing an early economic incentive for Iran to de-escalate.
According to people familiar with the agreement, sanctions waivers covering oil exports would take effect immediately after the deal is signed. The waivers would also extend to banking, transportation and insurance services required to facilitate oil transactions.
A senior US official cited by the Wall Street Journal said Iran would receive initial sanctions relief linked to oil sales, but longer-term economic benefits would depend on Tehran meeting US conditions, including keeping the Strait of Hormuz open and addressing concerns over its nuclear program.
However, the agreement would not provide Iran with immediate access to billions of dollars in frozen assets, the official said.
The reports highlight the central role of the Strait of Hormuz in ongoing US-Iran negotiations, with Washington seeking assurances over energy security and nuclear issues while Tehran looks for economic relief from sanctions.
