US Central Command (CENTCOM) leader Admiral Brad Cooper has recommended ending the ongoing air campaign in the Strait of Hormuz, concluding that the offensive has reached the limit of its effectiveness.
The advice comes after two weeks of strikes aimed at degrading Iran’s capacity to threaten maritime traffic through the strategic chokepoint.
Cooper’s assessment suggests that while the US-led operations have weakened Tehran’s ability to disrupt shipping, further military action is unlikely to yield additional strategic gains.
The recommendation marks a significant shift in the operational posture, moving from active escalation toward a potential pause or cessation of hostilities in the region.
For energy markets, the prospect of halted strikes reduces the immediate risk of a prolonged supply disruption.
Brent crude and shipping insurance premiums, which have been elevated due to fears of renewed attacks on tankers, may see downward pressure as the threat of kinetic conflict recedes.