Trump aides weigh paid escort to restart Hormuz tanker traffic

Trump administration officials are exploring options to boost tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, including a fee-based “VIP pass” for expedited, navy-escorted transit to reassure insurers amid ongoing U.S.-Iran talks. Despite the White House’s claims that Hormuz is open, shipowners remain wary and hundreds of vessels sit idle; discussions also touch on insurers’ coverage, potential Defense Production Act use, and European involvement to share maritime security duties as energy markets react to the standoff.