US officials are furiously trying to avert a potential monthslong closure of the Strait of Hormuz, privately acknowledging that reopening the key waterway is a problem without a clear solution and dependent at least in part on what lengths President Donald Trump is willing to go to force the Iranian regime’s hand,

But at just 35 miles wide, it did. It’s just the latest evidence of how dependent the global economy is on a handful of choke points.

The U.S. and Israel’s war with Iran has thrust the Strait of Hormuz into the crosshairs of yet another geopolitical conflict.

The US military targeted an underground site along Iran’s coastline earlier this week, dropping multiple 5,000-pound bombs, according to Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command.

Today we examine the fight to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and why America’s call for help is going unanswered.

The United Kingdom, France, Germany and others have signaled their commitment to join U.S.-led efforts in securing the Strait of Hormuz following pressure from the Trump administration.

The officer asked for anonymity, as the crew of his vessel, one of two Indian ships that made the crossing, were not permitted to talk to the media.

There are several ways the United States could attempt to reopen the waterway, all of which carry substantial risks.