Pirates of the Caspian: How to plug Iran’s northern supply loophole

Published August 26, 2026 7:00am ET



The West is winning the strategic fight against Iran on the high seas. Today, the United States does not stand alone. A strong coalition of 39 nations has united to defend global trade. This alliance maintains a strict naval blockade around the Strait of Hormuz. Furthermore, a firm international majority at the United Nations agrees on a key goal. They state that Tehran must never build nuclear weapons.

However, a dangerous back door remains wide open to the north.

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