According to a report by Anadolu Agency on Friday, March 13, 2026, the US Department of Defense and the National Security Council significantly underestimated Iran’s willingness to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz following U.S. and Israel military strikes.
The strait is a critical maritime chokepoint, handling roughly 20% of the world’s oil supply under normal conditions.
CNN, citing unnamed American officials familiar with the matter, reported that U.S. planners did not fully incorporate a “worst-case scenario” in which Tehran would block the strait. Senior officials acknowledged in congressional briefings that the possibility of closure had not been adequately anticipated. See More/Read Original