US officials are working to prevent a potential months-long closure of the Strait of Hormuz, without a clear solution. The key waterway is dependent on what lengths President Donald Trump is willing to go to force the Iranian regime's hand. An internal assessment from the Defense Intelligence Agency indicated that Iran could keep the passage shut for up to six months, according to sources. However, White House and Pentagon officials insisted that this assessment was not being seriously considered. The timing of the closure depends on how much impact the Iranian weapons stockpiles and the lack of certainty about Iran’s remaining military capabilities. The US has increased military efforts to clear the strait, with weapons systems being used to control the passage and prevent Iranian attacks.