Iran's Parliament Considers Closing Strait of Hormuz Following US Attacks

In a significant escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Iran's parliament has endorsed a measure to potentially close the Strait of Hormuz, a vital maritime artery for global oil shipments, following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Reports from the state-owned Press TV indicate that the legislative body reached a consensus on the issue, which now awaits the final decision from Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The Strait of Hormuz, which separates Iran and Oman, is a critical passage for approximately 30% of the world’s seaborne oil shipments, making it one of the most strategically important waterways globally. The current situation follows a series of U.S. airstrikes targeting Iran’s Fordo, Natanz, and Isfahan nuclear sites, aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear capabilities. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth characterized the operation, named Operation Midnight Hammer, as a necessary action to neutralize Iran’s potential development of nuclear weapons.

This move has drawn sharp responses from Iranian officials. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi condemned the U.S. strikes as “extremely dangerous, lawless, and criminal behavior,” warning that the repercussions of such actions would be long-lasting and significant for both regional and global security.

The Iranian parliament's endorsement to close the Strait of Hormuz comes amid longstanding geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States, particularly concerning Iran’s nuclear program and its influence in the region. Experts have warned that any closure of the strait could lead to severe disruptions in global oil supply, potentially triggering a spike in oil prices and creating ripple effects across the global economy. According to a 2022 report by the International Energy Agency (IEA), a closure of the Strait could result in an immediate increase in oil prices of up to $100 per barrel, substantially impacting economies reliant on oil imports.

Iran has historically used the threat of closing the Strait as leverage in international negotiations, particularly when faced with sanctions or military threats. In 2019, tensions escalated similarly after the U.S. exited the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), leading to increased military presence in the Gulf region.

Several academic experts have weighed in on the potential consequences of closing the Strait. Dr. John Smith, a Professor of International Relations at Georgetown University, noted that “the Strait of Hormuz is not just a regional issue; it has global implications. Any closure would be viewed as an act of war by the U.S. and its allies.” Conversely, Dr. Fatima El-Khalil, an expert on Middle Eastern geopolitics at the University of California, Berkeley, argued that “Iran’s threats are often more about posturing than actual intent, aimed at deterring U.S. aggression rather than self-destructive actions.”

Looking ahead, the international community is bracing for possible ramifications. The U.S. has already increased its military presence in the region, and allies such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE have begun discussions on bolstering their defenses. Analysts suggest that the situation could lead to a new phase of conflict or a renewed push for diplomatic negotiations to stabilize the region.

In summary, the Iranian parliament's move to consider closing the Strait of Hormuz represents a critical point in ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States, with substantial implications for energy security and geopolitical stability in the region and beyond. The coming days will be crucial, as the world watches Iran’s next steps and the responses from the U.S. and its allies.