NPR News: 05-03-2026 7PM EDT

President Trump announced that the U.S. will begin escorting ships through the Strait of Hormuz starting tomorrow, though he provided no details on participating countries or operational specifics. This comes amid an ongoing war involving Iran, where the strait remains closed, disrupting oil flows. The update reflects divided opinions in Congress and public skepticism, alongside sharp rises in U.S. gas prices.

Strait of Hormuz Escorts and Divided Views on Iran War

Trump's decision aims to reopen the vital shipping lane, but logistics remain unclear. Senate Armed Services Committee Democrat Jack Reed criticized the U.S. position as "much worse" since the war began, stating that President Trump lacks a plan for his objectives and that Iran's regime is now "more hostile and fanatical" than before. In contrast, Republican Senator Rick Scott praised the move on Fox News Sunday, saying Trump is "finally doing the right thing" to hold Iran accountable. A Washington Post-ABC News-Ipsos poll from last week showed 61% of U.S. adults view the use of military force against Iran as a mistake, highlighting broad public reservations about the conflict's direction and costs.

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