MOSCOW, September 3 (HS/RIA Novosti) - The volume of oil supplies through the Strait of Hormuz has almost returned to the level as before the conflict with Iran began, US President Donald Trump said on Thursday.

Trump posted an image on Truth Social, according to which about 18 million barrels of oil per day are currently passing through the strait, compared to 20 million barrels before the conflict began.

Hormuz Oil Volumes are BACK! the image read.

Late on Wednesday, CNN reported, citing US officials, that the US military escorted 40 commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz on September 1, a record number since the start of the conflict.

During the operation, the US forces reportedly downed anti-ship cruise missiles and countered drones. At the same time, officials have no illusions about a quick resolution to the conflict, while energy companies remain concerned about the enormous risks associated with sending their vessels through the strait, the report added.

On August 18, Trump declared the Strait of Hormuz open to shipping, but a naval blockade remains in place against Iran. Currently, the conflict remains unresolved, and the US is relying on economic pressure.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a key route for global energy trade. Amid regional tensions, shipping through it has noticeably decreased. In recent days, the number of transiting vessels has dropped to a mere handful, with large oil tankers and gas carriers virtually ceasing to use the route. Before the escalation, approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas shipments passed through the strait.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Indrani Sarkar