US military and economic pressure on Iran during ongoing conflict affects global oil markets and trade routes

The United States has imposed a naval blockade on Iran and is seizing tankers carrying Iranian oil as part of ongoing military and economic pressure. Iran's control over the Strait of Hormuz gives it significant leverage, as the waterway is critical for global energy shipments. US oil exports have hit record levels as a result of Middle Eastern supply disruptions, but infrastructure constraints limit further growth.