Baghdad: US Energy Secretary Chris Wright confirmed on Sunday that the United States remains in a “state of conflict” with Iran, but he avoided describing the situation as a war, despite the ongoing military strikes, the latest of which occurred Saturday evening. In an interview with a US media network, Wright explained, “The United States is certainly still in a state of conflict,” adding that the US Navy remains in the region with the aim of “limiting Iran’s ability to cause problems, but they are doing everything they can to cause problems,” as he put it.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Wright also highlighted the critical role of the Strait of Hormuz in global oil transportation. He claimed that more than 9 million barrels of oil pass through the strait daily, noting that this rate represents the highest seven-day average. These statements come amidst continued tensions and military operations in the region, while fuel prices in the United States remain high, averaging nearly $4 per gallon.