Can Ukraine help reopen the Strait of Hormuz? Here's what Zelensky can offer

Key Points:

• Ukraine aims to position itself as a security partner to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz after Iran restricted shipping, leveraging its battle-tested weapons and operational experience from unblocking the Black Sea amid Russian aggression.
• The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime route for about 20% of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas, but Iranian threats and attacks have caused a 94% drop in traffic, leading to global energy price surges.
• Ukraine's expertise lies in defending vessels against fast, low-cost drone and missile attacks, using naval drones and asymmetric tactics developed during its conflict with Russia, which could complement Gulf partners' efforts to secure shipping lanes.
• However, Ukraine's contribution is limited to defense against incoming threats and cannot assist in clearing mines or suppressing Iranian launch sites, with geographic proximity to Iran posing significant challenges for sustained protection.
• While Ukraine's involvement could reduce immediate risks to shipping, it is unlikely to fully neutralize Iran's ability to disrupt the strait, serving more as a tactical support rather than a comprehensive solution.