AFBytes Quarter Rundown — Tuesday, August 18, 1:00 PM ET

Folks. Here's what's been making headlines today. The Washington Post reports that President-elect Trump and running mate JD Vance are not aligned on Iran policy. Vance favors keeping the Strait of Hormuz open to maintain lower fuel prices. This could affect U.S. energy prices and shipping routes that influence gasoline costs for drivers. America-first: Prioritizing open shipping lanes protects U.S. energy independence and consumer costs. | Household: Changes in Hormuz access would directly raise or lower pump prices paid by American drivers. | Nat-sec: Maintaining Hormuz access supports U.S. deterrence goals and supply-chain security for energy. President Trump announced that the Strait of Hormuz has been de-mined and is operating normally. The statement follows the expiration of a 60-day talks period with Iran. Shipping lanes are described as open. Reopened transit reduces immediate upward pressure on global oil prices that feed into U.S. consumer costs. America-first: Reopened lanes reinforce U.S. interest in secure global energy routes without additional concessions. | Household: Stable oil transit supports predictable gasoline prices for American drivers and shippers. | Nat-sec: Confirmed access to the strait supports broader U.S. efforts to maintain freedom of navigation. U.S. officials report the president issued a bombing threat tied to Oman’s negotiations with Iran on maritime traffic. The move reflects efforts to block closer Oman-Iran coordination. Disruption risks in the Strait of Hormuz directly affect global oil prices and U.S. energy costs for drivers and businesses. America-first: The approach prioritizes blocking Iranian influence over key shipping lanes. | Household: Higher oil prices from regional tension would increase fuel and goods costs for American families. | Nat-sec: Control of the Strait remains central to protecting global energy supply chains and U.S. naval access. That's the day from where we sit — thanks for spending part of it with us. Stay with us at AFBytes for what's next.