What to know about key waterway that Iran declared closed as it holds military
Iran has announced a temporary closure of parts of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage through which 20% of the world’s oil is transported. This unprecedented action coincides with live-fire military exercises in the region, signaling heightened tensions between Iran and the United States. The closure raises concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supplies and the broader implications for international trade.
Significance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway, measuring approximately 33 kilometers (21 miles) at its narrowest point. It connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, serving as a key route for maritime traffic heading to and from the Middle East. While Iran and Oman have territorial claims in the strait, it is generally recognized as an international waterway accessible to all vessels. The United Arab Emirates, including the bustling city of Dubai, is also situated near this crucial passage.
Historically, the strait has been essential for trade, facilitating the movement of goods such as ceramics, silk, and textiles. In contemporary times, it is predominantly used by supertankers transporting oil and gas from several Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq. The majority of this oil is destined for Asian markets, particularly China, which remains Iran’s primary oil customer despite international sanctions.
While alternative pipelines exist in the region, the U.S. Energy Information Administration notes that most oil volumes passing through the strait lack other viable exit routes. Threats to this key maritime corridor have previously led to spikes in global energy prices, underscoring its significance in the global economy.
Iran’s Military Exercises and Rising Tensions
Iran’s recent military drills, dubbed “Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz,” included live-fire exercises that prompted the temporary closure of the strait. Iranian media reported that the closure was implemented for several hours due to “safety and maritime concerns.” The U.S. military’s Central Command has not commented on the closure but has previously warned Iran against unsafe actions that could escalate tensions in the region.
In recent weeks, tensions have escalated between the U.S. and Iran, particularly following the U.S. military’s downing of an Iranian drone near the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier. Iran has also engaged in provocative actions, including harassing U.S.-flagged vessels in the strait. The Iranian military’s live-fire drills included missile tests, with reports indicating successful strikes on targets within the strait.
