US Energy Secretary Chris Wright has said the US Navy is not currently in a position to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, though he suggested that could change later this month.

Speaking to CNBC on Thursday, Wright said such an operation was likely to happen before long, but made clear the US was not prepared to do so at present.

He said American military resources were currently being directed elsewhere because of the war with Iran.

According to Wright, the immediate priority for US forces is to target Iran’s offensive capabilities and the industrial network supporting them.

Asked whether naval escorts for tankers could be in place by the end of the month, he said that appeared likely.

Wright also indicated that planning for such a move was already under way within the military.