Trump announces US DFC insurance and Navy escort for Strait of Hormuz tanker transits — Brent eases from $85 highs

The Trump administration announced that the US Development Finance Corporation will provide insurance and loan guarantees for maritime trade through the Strait of Hormuz, and the US Navy will begin escorting tankers through the strait. Brent crude eased from earlier intraday highs of $85/bbl following the announcement as markets interpreted it as a measure to restore shipping confidence. Effectiveness remains uncertain: P&I clubs are still terminating war risk coverage March 5, IRGC maintains threat posture at the strait, and Russia-China-Iran naval exercises inside the strait further complicate implementation.