Iran's Lifelong Threat to Close the Strait of Hormuz Fizzles Out
- Recent tensions between Iran and Israel raised concerns about the possibility of Iran disrupting oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
- The Strait is crucial for global oil supplies, with approximately 30% of the traded oil passing through it daily.
- Experts suggest that Iran is unlikely to act on these threats due to the potential military response from the United States and the negative impact on its own oil exports.
After recent skirmishes between Iran and Israel, concerns over potential Iranian actions against the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil, resurfaced. This strait handles about 30% of the world's traded oil, making its disruption a significant issue for global energy markets. However, such an action seems unlikely given the potential for immediate military retaliation from the United States, stationed nearby in Bahrain with the Fifth Fleet. Furthermore, closing the strait would also negatively impact Iran's own oil exports, further disincentivizing the move. Historical patterns indicate that while Iran has issued threats concerning the strait, it has yet to execute such plans, suggesting a reluctance to engage in actions that could provoke severe repercussions and harm its economy.