The US energy secretary has said the war involving Iran is likely to end within a matter of weeks, as American officials face mounting concerns over rising fuel costs and instability in global oil markets. Speaking in a television interview, Chris Wright said he expected the conflict to conclude relatively soon, although he acknowledged that wars rarely follow predictable timelines. “I think that this conflict will certainly come to an end in the next few weeks,” Wright said during an appearance on ABC’s political programme hosted by Martha Raddatz. He added that the fighting could end even sooner, but stressed that uncertainty remained. Rising oil prices fuel concernThe comments come as the war has pushed fuel prices higher across the United States, largely due to disruptions to oil shipments from the Middle East. Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping route linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. Roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil supply normally passes through the narrow waterway, making it one of the most strategically important energy corridors globally. The disruption has caused crude oil prices to surge and driven up petrol costs in the US. According to the fuel-tracking service GasBuddy, the national average price of gasoline has risen by about 76 cents per gallon since the conflict began. Wright said he hoped prices would fall once the situation stabilises, but cautioned that there were no guarantees while fighting continues. “There’s no guarantees in wars at all,” he said, describing the current price increases as temporary pain. Coalition effort to reopen key shipping routeOfficials are also considering measures to restore oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Wright previously suggested that the United States Navy could escort commercial oil tankers through the waterway in the coming weeks, although preparations were still under way. Meanwhile, Donald Trump said on social media that several countries could contribute naval forces to help reopen the shipping lane, though it remains unclear which nations might take part in such an effort. Wright noted that many Asian economies depend heavily on oil transported through the strait, making international cooperation likely. “China, Japan, Korea and other Asian nations rely on energy that flows through the Strait of Hormuz,” he said, arguing that it would make sense for multiple countries to work together to ensure the route remains open. Dispute over planning and security concernsThe conflict has also sparked political debate in Washington. Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate leader, criticised the administration for allegedly failing to prepare adequately for the possibility that Iran might close the strait and disrupt global oil supplies. Wright rejected those claims, saying officials had carefully considered potential scenarios before the conflict began. Separately, lawmakers have raised concerns about possible security threats within the United States during the conflict. Adam Smith, the senior Democrat on the House Armed Services Committee, said authorities should remain alert to the possibility of attacks linked to rising tensions in the Middle East. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now · Source · 16.March 2026
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