Credited from: ALJAZEERA
The Iranian Parliament has voted in favor of closing the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil transit route through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply flows daily. This decision follows recent US airstrikes targeting key Iranian nuclear facilities, including sites in Fordo and Natanz. However, the ultimate decision on whether to proceed with the closure rests with Iran's Supreme National Security Council, as clarified by lawmaker Esmail Kowsari. "The Parliament has reached the conclusion that the Strait of Hormuz should be closed, but the final decision in this regard lies with the Supreme National Security Council," he stated, according to Newsweek and India Times.
The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz carries significant implications for global energy markets, as it is a vital artery for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Past threats from Iran to close the strait have created unease among energy traders, particularly amid ongoing Israeli attacks on Iranian interests. "The closure of the strait is on the agenda and will be done whenever necessary," Kowsari emphasized, highlighting the likelihood of operational disruptions should tensions escalate further, according to Anadolu Agency and Al Jazeera.
Iranian officials and analysts suggest that the closure of the Strait could occur in response to escalating military actions against the nation. This closure could potentially surge oil prices globally, as disruptions to this maritime chokepoint would significantly affect energy supplies. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that such a move would be "economic suicide" for Iran, but would have grave consequences for global economies as well, reflecting a deeply intertwined economic and geopolitical landscape, as reported by Al Jazeera and India Times.