2WAY Tonight with Mark Halperin 'It Will Be Wrapped Up Soon': Trump Predicts Quick End To Iran War, Slams Unhelpful European Leaders
Mar 16, 2026
Clint Hinote, former Air Force lieutenant general and RAND scholar, offers military analysis on the Strait of Hormuz. Mehek Cooke, GOP attorney and strategist, provides conservative political commentary. They discuss coalition escorts, smart mines and maritime risks. They also debate using China as leverage, insurance and economic pressures, and how autonomy and diplomacy could shape regional strategy.
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Why Escort Fleets Won't Fully Secure The Strait
- The Strait of Hormuz cannot be guaranteed open by short-term naval escorts because small, cheap threats can keep traffic disrupted.
- Clint Hinote explains mitigation can reach ~95–99% but the last 1–2% requires controlling Iranian coastal territory, a high-risk ground requirement.
China Could Redefine Who Pays For Sea Lane Security
- China joining freedom-of-navigation efforts would change the global burden of securing sea lanes and reshape geopolitical incentives.
- Hinote says Chinese participation could let China demand concessions like non-dollar oil settlement while relieving Western navies' policing role.
Coordinate Coalitions But Plan For Red Cards
- Use coalition partners to share risk but expect slow negotiation on rules of engagement and encrypted communications.
- Hinote warns coalitions carry 'red cards' allowing nations to veto actions, so coordination takes weeks and careful deconfliction.