Red Sea Lessons Warn of Hormuz’s Tough Fight

The Western powers have tried to keep ships safe in the Red Sea, but their effort cost billions and still left four vessels lost. That experience now shadows plans to protect the Strait of Hormuz, a narrower channel that carries about twenty percent of world oil and gas. Iran has blocked the waterway after attacks on Gulf energy sites, pushing prices higher and threatening global shortages. In a recent UN meeting, countries debated how to defend the strait. Some, like Bahrain, pushed for a forceful approach that could involve armed intervention. Experts say Iran’s military is far stronger than the Houthi rebels in Yemen, with drones, missiles and mines ready to strike from its steep coast. Retired Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery noted that escorting convoys in Hormuz is harder than in the Red Sea because the channel is narrower and Iran can launch attacks from close to shore. He warned that a single destroyer cannot fight all threats at once, such as missiles, drones and mines.

The U. S. has shifted its strategy. Initially it said the Navy would escort ships, but later suggested other nations lead the effort. Iran has also floated a fee for vessels that want to pass, adding another layer of complication. The Red Sea operation began in December 2023 with U. S. and European forces shooting down many drones and missiles. Yet four ships still sank, leading shippers to take longer routes around Africa. Analysts describe this as a tactical win but a strategic setback. In Hormuz, the danger area could be five times larger than in the Red Sea. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has missile and drone stockpiles hidden along its coastline, allowing quick attacks. The presence of sea mines and armed mini-submarines adds risks the U. S. did not face before. A mix of mine‑clearing, naval escorts and air patrols is needed to restore traffic. Experts say it could take months of persistent effort before the threat diminishes enough for ships to flow freely again.

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