API Convenes Experts to Examine Emerging Lessons from Hormuz and the Future of Energy Security

WASHINGTON, June 22, 2026 - The American Petroleum Institute (API) today convened leading energy experts to examine the lessons emerging from the disruption in the Strait of Hormuz and discuss the future of U.S. energy security. Against a backdrop of ongoing uncertainty in global energy markets, API unveiled a new energy security framework focused on strengthening supply, infrastructure and resilience.

"Even amid uncertainty, one fact stands out. The world is still absorbing the largest oil supply disruption since the 1970s. Yet for most of this crisis, oil prices have remained below $100 a barrel. At another point in history, that would have been almost unthinkable. American energy is making the difference," API President and CEO Mike Sommers said during opening remarks.

"Hormuz is testing more than just markets. It is testing assumptions about supply, infrastructure and resilience." Sommers said. "Every energy policy that emerges from this moment should pass a simple test: Does it help us produce energy? Does it help us move energy? Does it help us withstand disruption?"

One lesson emerging from the disruption is that key elements of America's energy security architecture were built for a different era. "Modernizing the SPR is essential if America's energy security architecture is going to reflect the realities of today's energy system," Sommers said.

The disruption also reinforced the significance of infrastructure, underscoring the importance of permitting reform. "The clearest lesson of this disruption is that producing energy is not enough. Energy must be able to move to consumers when and where it is needed," Sommers said.

Sommers also highlighted the role targeted Jones Act waivers played during the disruption. "A more transparent and predictable waiver process would strengthen energy security before the next disruption arrives," added Sommers.

The framework also underscores the importance of strengthening energy integration across the Western Hemisphere, expanding alternative export routes with partners in the Persian Gulf and ensuring institutions such as the International Energy Agency remain focused on their core mission of energy security.

"The Strait of Hormuz reminded us that too much of the world's energy still depends on a small number of routes and chokepoints," Sommers said. "At its core, this framework is built around a simple idea: More options. Fewer points of failure."

The event featured Daniel Yergin, S&P Global Vice Chairman; Bob McNally, Founder and President of Rapidan Energy Group; Joseph Majkut, Director of the Energy Security and Climate Change Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies; and Landon Derentz, Vice President of Energy and Infrastructure at the Atlantic Council.

Together, they explored the implications of recent geopolitical and market developments and discussed how policymakers can strengthen American energy security in an increasingly uncertain world.

To watch a recap of the event, click here.

For a copy of API President and CEO Mike Sommers' prepared remarks, click here.

To learn more about API's American Energy Security Framework, click here.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) represents all segments of America's oil and natural gas industry, supporting nearly 11 million U.S. jobs. With approximately 600 members, API companies produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation's energy. Founded in 1919, API has developed over 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

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