[Former U.S. Defense Secretary: U.S. Military Can Reopen the Strait of Hormuz but Needs Allies to Help Maintain Accessibility] According to a report by Jinse Finance, on June 9, former U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the U.S. Navy has the capability to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, keeping this critical oil and gas transportation route open in the long term would be costly and require the participation of allies. Austin, who served as Secretary of Defense under the Biden administration, said: 'The U.S. Navy can certainly reopen the Strait of Hormuz. But maintaining its open status over the long term will come at a considerable cost. Therefore, if such a situation arises, we hope to see the international community participate collectively. If we reopen the strait, we want allies and partners to join in, because freedom of navigation is not only important to the United States but is crucial to the entire world.' Austin also pointed out that Israel's ongoing attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon remain one of the main obstacles to broader diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. He expressed hope for a 'cooling down' of the situation so that negotiations can continue.