Unfortunately, the US still imports over 10,000 barrels a day that moves through the Persian gulf. We export and import but we are still net importers.
The closing of the Straights of Hormuz would cause a worldwide spike in the price of oil and create economic havoc. I remember the the price increases - 1000% from 1969 to 1979. I remember the gas lines, the recession and people literally killing each other while waiting in line for gas.
We are less dependent on imported oil now then we were then but until we are TRULY energy independent, we can’t ignore the threat that is posed by closure of the straights.
All the more reason for Europeans to step up to the plane and DO something... AND pay their damn NATO fees. Yeah, we'll pay a price, but it'll be NOTHING compared to the rest of the world. I'm sick of our country running into every fire while our 'friends' grill hot dogs over the flames. NO BLOOD NO TREASURE.