Iran’s Parliament Moves to Close the Strait of Hormuz in Escalating Tensions
In a significant parliamentary development, Iran’s legislature has unanimously backed a measure to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for recent U.S. and Israeli airstrikes targeting the regime’s nuclear facilities. Although the vote signals a stark escalation in Tehran’s posture, ultimate authority over such a critical decision resides with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
State broadcaster Press TV reported the parliamentary consensus on the measure, highlighting the seriousness with which Iran is contemplating its options amid mounting regional tensions. However, experts suggest that whether Iran proceeds with such a move remains uncertain, as the consequences could be far-reaching not only for regional stability but for global energy markets.
The Strait of Hormuz is widely recognised as the “world’s most important oil transit chokepoint”, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Around 30% of the world’s seaborne oil shipments and an estimated 20 million barrels of crude, condensate, and fuels pass through the strait daily. This crucial passage links the Persian Gulf’s major oil producers—including Iran, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Iraq—to global markets, chiefly in Asia.
Despite the formidable strategic importance, energy analysts remain sceptical that Iran will follow through on its threat to close the strait. Vandana Hari, founder of energy intelligence firm Vanda Insights, explained to CNBC that such a move would likely alienate Iran’s neighbouring oil-producing states, turning potential allies into enemies. “If Iran blocks the strait, the country risks turning its neighbouring oil-producing countries into enemies and risking hostilities with them,” she said. “There’s very little to be gained and a great deal of self-inflicted harm Iran could cause itself.”
A closure would have immediate economic repercussions, particularly for Iran’s key customers in Asia. China, which accounts for nearly 90% of Iran’s oil exports and is heavily reliant on imports via the Strait, would be profoundly affected. The move could trigger an economic crisis for China and other nations dependent on the route, prompting calls from Western officials for diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged China to intervene, emphasising its dependence on the strait. Speaking to FOX News, Rubio stated, “I encourage the Chinese government in Beijing to call Iran about that, because they heavily depend on the Strait of Hormuz for their oil…It would be economic suicide for them.” He also highlighted that the U.S. retains various options to respond, but international cooperation was essential to prevent a broader crisis.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Fifth Fleet, headquartered in Bahrain, continues to monitor the situation. According to the Joint Maritime Information Center, there are no immediate threats to commercial shipping in the waterway. Reports indicate that some supertankers have already turned back after U.S. strikes targeted Iran’s nuclear sites over the weekend, underscoring the tense and unpredictable nature of the current standoff.
As tensions escalate, the world watches closely—understanding that any disruption in the Strait of Hormuz would reverberate through global energy markets, affecting prices and supply chains worldwide. The question remains whether Iran will act on its parliamentary resolution or seek alternative avenues to confront its foes without risking a major economic and geopolitical upheaval.
Subscribe to Industry Updates
