22.06.2025 14:04
Following a pre-dawn US airstrike targeting Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, Iran dramatically retaliated by closing the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday. This action effectively halted approximately 20% of the world's oil transport, creating immediate and widespread global concern.
The US strikes, authorized directly by President Donald Trump, came on the heels of Israeli attacks that severely damaged Iran's missile infrastructure. Tehran's swift response, a parliamentary vote to block all passage through the Strait of Hormuz, sent shockwaves through global energy markets, prompting fears of sharply escalating crude oil prices upon market reopening.
This closure significantly impacts the transportation of oil and gas from the Persian Gulf to major consumers including China, Europe, and South Asia. The Iranian regime’s assertive response followed earlier Israeli strikes against multiple Iranian nuclear facilities and military command centers, actions to which Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei vowed "irreparable damage" in retaliation for any further US involvement. Iran's parliamentary decision to close the strait, endorsed by Khamenei himself, was a direct consequence of these escalating tensions and prior threats issued following what Iran characterized as an unprovoked Israeli assault.
The Strait of Hormuz's strategic importance is undeniable. Situated at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, this narrow waterway is a critical artery for global oil transport, carrying roughly 16.5 million barrels of crude oil and condensate daily in 2024. This figure represents a significant portion of global oil production originating from nations including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UAE, Kuwait, and Iran. Furthermore, over 20% of the world's liquefied natural gas, primarily from Qatar, also transits this vital passage.
Even before the official closure, the rising tensions prompted reactions from various actors. The UK government, for instance, issued an uncommonly urgent warning to commercial ships navigating the region, highlighting the increased risk of hostilities and the heightened potential for dangerous incidents.
