The diplomatic push to end the conflict with Iran reached a high-stakes crossroads Sunday, as Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains unsafe for commercial travel despite ongoing talk of a potential deal.
The closure of the vital shipping lane has contributed to a surge in American gas prices, which have climbed over a dollar per gallon since the war began two months ago.
In an interview on CNN’s State of the Union, Secretary Wright stated that the U.S. is currently engaged in a “maximum pressure campaign” on Iran, utilizing both a naval blockade and financial sanctions to bring the Iranian regime to the table.
While President Trump suggested on social media that he would target Iranian civilian infrastructure if a deal isn’t reached, Wright characterized the rhetoric as a tool for “maximum leverage” in a negotiation he believes is nearing a conclusion. “I think President Trump and Vice President Vance have us on a pathway to a good ending in this conflict before long,” Wright added.
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The situation on the water remains volatile. While there were hopes earlier in the week that the strait might open, Wright confirmed that it is currently blocked following Iranian attacks on French and British vessels.
He noted that while the U.S. has the military capability to open the lane by force, the administration prefers a diplomatic resolution. “The best way to do it is to have an end to the conflict and a defanged and de-armed Iran,” Wright said.
Domestic concerns over fuel costs took center stage during the discussion, as previous administration forecasts for sub-$3.00 gas have yet to materialize.
When asked when Americans might see gas prices drop, Wright admitted, “I don’t know. That could happen later this year. That might not happen until next year.”
He defended the current economic strategy, arguing that “putting this 47-year conflict to an end” has naturally “come with short-term disruption,” but insisted the administration has “managed it fantastically.”
Diplomatic efforts are moving to Islamabad, Pakistan, on Monday, with a delegation led by Vice President J.D. Vance. Despite reports from Iranian negotiators that the two sides remain far apart, Wright expressed optimism that a deal could be reached within the next week or two.
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He cited internal fragmentation within the Iranian government as a sign that the sanctions and military pressure are beginning to take a significant toll, noting, “the regime is breaking up into different factions.”
The administration also addressed a recent policy shift regarding Russian oil. After initially signaling a hard line, the U.S. extended a pause on certain sanctions following the G20 conference.
Wright explained that this was a temporary measure requested by international bankers to stabilize global energy prices, stating the goal is “to lower the price of energy in Asia and in Europe” while the Iran crisis continues.
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