Iran keeps the Strait of Hormuz closed as a strategic lever
Iran keeps the Strait of Hormuz closed as a strategic lever
The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow waterway between the Persian Gulf and the open ocean, has emerged as the epicenter of the 2026 global energy crisis.
Since the conflict involving Iran and a U.S.-Israeli coalition began in late February, Iran has effectively paralyzed this critical maritime chokepoint.
While not a total blockade, Iran has used asymmetric tactics—such as drone strikes, naval mines, and electronic jamming—to deter transit, effectively halting the flow of approximately 20% of the world's daily oil supply.
Iran views this disruption as a strategic lever, using the threat of global economic instability to pressure the U.S. and its allies into ending military operations.
Despite international condemnation and the U.S. ultimatum demanding the Strait be reopened, the situation remains a tense standoff between conventional military power and modern, low-cost warfare tactics.
