Tehran: Rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have sparked global concern after Iran hinted at the possibility of closing the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategic maritime choke points.
Located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, the Strait of Hormuz is a vital passage for nearly 20% of global oil shipments. Any disruption in this corridor could lead to a massive surge in global oil prices, trigger supply chain disruptions, and escalate military tensions in the region.
The United States, along with several Gulf states, has already warned Tehran against taking such an action, calling it a threat to international navigation and global security. Meanwhile, global markets are watching closely, with major oil companies activating emergency response strategies.
Iran, on the other hand, has maintained that the threat is a defensive measure in response to what it claims are Western provocations and Israeli actions in the region.
Experts warn that even the possibility of a closure is enough to cause panic in global energy markets. Diplomatic efforts are currently underway to de-escalate the situation and prevent a crisis that could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy.