In recent weeks, the Strait of Hormuz has once again attracted international attention following the increase in tensions between Iran and the United States, due to the bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities and threats to close the sea passage. This situation has rekindled fears about the security of global energy transit and the possible impact on oil markets.
Where is the Strait of Hormuz located?
The Strait of Hormuz is a natural sea passage connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and, by extension, with the Arabian Sea. It is located between Iran (to the north) and the United Arab Emirates and Oman (to the south). It is 39 km wide at its narrowest part, but its effective navigation channel is limited to two lanes of approximately 3 km each, used for transit in opposite directions, totaling about 6 km of active navigation.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most strategic points in the world for one key reason: it is the main transport route for oil coming out of the Persian Gulf. Approximately 21% of the world’s oil transits through this passage, equivalent to more than 21 million barrels per day, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). (IEA). It also handles about 27% of the world’s liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) flow.
Geopolitical tension between Iran and the U.S.
The Strait of Hormuz has been a recurrent scene of geopolitical tensions. During the 1980s, in the context of the Iran-Iraq war, both countries attacked enemy oil tankers in what became known as the “Tanker War”.
From the 2000s to the present, the United States has maintained an active military presence to ensure free navigation in the area, while Iran has threatened on multiple occasions to close the strait in response to economic sanctions or military action by the West. In fact, the Iranian Parliament has gone so far as to pass motions for its closure as a geopolitical pressure measure.
Closure of the Strait of Hormuz
The closure or blockade of the Strait of Hormuz would have global economic consequences. It would not only disrupt the flow of oilbut also the flow of liquefied natural gas (LNG), especially from Qatar. Alternative pipeline routes do not have sufficient capacity to compensate for the loss. A shutdown could result in the loss of up to five million barrels of oil per day, according to Iraqi authorities.
In addition, any conflict in the area involves international actors such as the US, China, the European Union and Russia, given their energy dependence or geopolitical interests. Recently, China has called for stability in the Middle East in the face of possible blockades of the strait.
Alternate measures in the event of closure
In view of this vulnerability, various strategies have been implemented at the international level. One of the most important is the naval presence in the region: the United States, together with allies such as the United Kingdom and France, constantly patrol the Strait of Hormuz to guarantee the security of maritime traffic. In 2023, naval commanders from these three powers jointly sailed through the strait as a clear sign of unity in the face of threats from Iran.
In addition, several countries have promoted the diversification of energy routes to reduce their dependence on this route. One example is the Habshan-Fuyairah Habshan-Fuyairah oil pipeline pipeline in the United Arab Emirates, which makes it possible to export oil without having to pass through the strait. Finally, multilateral energy diplomacy forums have also been promoted with the aim of stabilizing the region, fostering dialogue between the powers involved and preventing major conflicts affecting global trade.
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Source: Inspenet
Photos: Wikipedia / Shutterstock