Part 4/18:
US naval forces dominate the waters of the Strait of Hormuz, holding uncontested control over maritime traffic. Carrier strike groups, destroyers, submarines, and surveillance assets create a zone of unrivaled American maritime dominance, preventing Iran from challenging externally.
2. Economic Layer:
Iran’s vital oil exports have been cut off entirely; its revenue streams are drying up. Before the blockade, Iran exported about 1.85 million barrels daily, earning around $150 million. Now, those funds cease. Without income from oil, the regime’s capacity to fund its military, proxies, and social programs plummets as storage tanks fill up and wells risk permanent damage due to prolonged shutdowns.