Iran's decision to push legislation in parliament for the closure of the Strait of Hormuz—one of the world’s most strategic maritime corridors—marks a dangerous escalation in the widening conflict with Israel. While the final decision lies with the country’s Supreme National Security Council, the political signal is unmistakable: Tehran is willing to use the nuclear option of energy warfare.

This development came shortly after the United States reportedly carried out precision airstrikes on three Iranian nuclear sites. Though unconfirmed by Iranian state media, multiple sources suggest infrastructure at those sites was severely damaged. As Israeli strikes on critical infrastructure mount and Iran’s retaliation options narrow, the closure of Hormuz is no longer a theoretical threat—it’s a credible geopolitical risk.

The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow 33-kilometer passage between Iran and Oman, is the most vital oil transit chokepoint on the planet. According to U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) data, it handled an average of 20 million barrels of oil per day in 2024—equivalent to 20% of total global oil consumption. A further 20% of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, primarily from Qatar, also pass through the strait.

Over 80% of this oil and gas goes to Asia, with China, India, Japan, and South Korea being the top importers. Any disruption here would create chaos not only in regional energy flows, but in the entire global supply........

© AzerNews