Bloomberg Businessweek Trump Calls on Allies to Seize Hormuz as Frustration Mounts
Mar 31, 2026
Stew Leonard Jr., president of a family grocery chain, on how higher energy costs squeeze prices and supply chains. Loren Grush, a space reporter, on NASA’s Artemis goals, lunar plans and program challenges. Peter Atwater, an economist and lecturer, on macro trends and the growing K-shaped economy. They discuss grocery pain, moon missions, energy risks and who bears the costs.
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Peace Depends On Iran's Preconditions
- The war's end depends on conditional terms, not just declarations of willingness to stop fighting.
- Jennifer Welch notes Iran's offer includes demands like recognition of sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, a red line for the U.S. and many Gulf states.
Energy Shock Hits Importers Harder Than U.S.
- Higher energy prices already hit households' disposable income and hit Asian economies more severely than the U.S.
- Welch contrasts the U.S. as a net energy producer being cushioned while import-dependent Asian countries scramble for alternatives.
Hormuz Could Become Iran's Long Term Leverage
- Control or informal tolling of the Strait of Hormuz could become a persistent lever for Iran after hostilities.
- Welch warns Iran has learned it can exercise low-cost leverage over shipping through the strait, risking ongoing disruption or new sanctions.