- Energy Secretary Chris Wright contradicts Donald Trump, saying no operation to seize Iranian oil.
- U.S. forces have facilitated some oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Tanker traffic through the strait has increased significantly over the past week.
Contradicting Claims on Iran Oil
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright told lawmakers Thursday that he is unaware of any operation to seize millions of barrels of Iranian oil, directly contradicting earlier comments by former President Donald Trump. Wright stated that U.S. forces have helped facilitate some oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and noted that tanker traffic has increased significantly over the past week.
"I have no knowledge of any seizure operation," Wright said during a congressional hearing, according to people familiar with the matter. "Our role has been to ensure the safe passage of legitimate shipments."
The comments mark a sharp departure from Trump's recent assertion that the U.S. was actively seizing Iranian oil cargoes. A spokesperson for Trump did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, has seen a notable uptick in tanker movements, suggesting easing tensions or shifting shipping patterns. Analysts say the discrepancy could impact oil prices, which have been volatile amid ongoing sanctions on Iran.
Correction: An earlier version of this article mischaracterized the timing of Wright's comments.