Fresh intelligence reports indicate Iran is unlikely to reopen the critical waterway anytime soon.

Iran Seen Holding Strategic Oil Chokepoint

The country's control over the strait remains its most powerful bargaining tool against the U.S., Reuters reported, citing three sources familiar with the matter.

The passage carries roughly one-fifth of the global oil trade, making any disruption a major driver of energy prices.

"Iran has tasted its power and leverage … it won't soon give it up," one source familiar with the assessments said.

Oil Prices, Inflation Risks Rise

Tehran's actions, including attacks on vessels, mines and threats to commercial shipping, have made transit increasingly dangerous and costly.

That has pushed ...