Details of the Iranian announcement and statements by the Revolutionary Guard
In a significant security and military development, the Iranian military command announced the closure of the strategic Strait of Hormuz, less than a day after its reopening. This escalatory move comes in response to what Tehran described as the "American blockade" imposed upon it. In a clear and direct statement, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) affirmed that this vital strait will remain under strict control and close monitoring by Iranian forces, emphasizing that this measure will not be reversed unless the United States guarantees the complete freedom of navigation for commercial vessels and oil tankers traveling to and from Iranian ports without any obstruction.
The strategic and economic importance of the Strait of Hormuz
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important and sensitive waterways. Connecting the waters of the Arabian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman, the Arabian Sea, and the Indian Ocean, it is a vital artery for global energy supplies. Reliable international statistics indicate that approximately 20% to 30% of the world's total oil consumption, along with vast quantities of liquefied natural gas, passes through this narrow strait daily. Consequently, any disruption or threat to navigation through it has an immediate and direct impact on global energy markets, leading to sharp fluctuations in oil prices and negative repercussions for the entire global economy.
Historical background and the weapon of threatening to close the strait
Historically, this is not the first time Iran has used the Strait of Hormuz as a tool for political and military pressure. From the "Tanker War" in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq War to the escalating tensions of 2011, 2012, and 2019, Tehran has repeatedly threatened to close the strait in response to Western sanctions and international pressure. Iran's strategy in this context is based on the principle of "mutual deterrence," whereby Tehran believes that if it is prevented from exporting its oil and conducting trade freely due to sanctions, it will not allow others to export their oil easily through this vital waterway.
The repercussions of the American embargo and its regional and international impact
The term “American siege,” used by the Iranian leadership, refers to the harsh economic sanctions imposed by Washington on Tehran, particularly since the United States’ unilateral withdrawal from the nuclear agreement in 2018. These sanctions primarily targeted the oil and banking sectors, crippling the Iranian economy and reducing its oil exports to record lows. Regionally and internationally, these developments are deeply concerning. Neighboring Gulf states rely almost entirely on the Strait of Hormuz for their oil exports. Furthermore, major powers consider freedom of navigation in the Strait a red line affecting their national security, which could lead to an increased foreign military presence in the region to protect shipping and raise the likelihood of unintended military clashes that could ignite a wider conflict in the Middle East.
