Iran to Close 'Strait of Hormuz' After US Strikes: What It Means for Global Oil

In a move that could plunge the global economy into chaos, Iran’s parliament has unanimously approved a proposal to close the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil and gas trade routes. The dramatic decision comes in direct retaliation to recent US-led airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

While the parliamentary vote signals Tehran’s firm intent to escalate, the final decision to enforce the closure lies with the country’s Supreme National Security Council, which has not yet issued a formal execution order. Still, the move has already triggered panic across global markets and diplomatic circles.

Strait of Hormuz: A Chokehold on the World’s Energy

At just 33 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, the Strait of Hormuz may seem geographically minor—but its strategic importance is enormous. Every day, more than 20 million barrels of oil—roughly a fifth of the world’s total supply—pass through this narrow stretch of water between Iran and Oman. It also serves as a key transit route for liquified natural gas from Qatar.

By targeting this maritime lifeline, Iran has brought the world to the edge of an energy crisis not seen since the 1980s. Analysts are already warning that oil prices could soar past $100 a barrel, with ripple effects ranging from fuel price hikes to inflation spikes around the globe.

US Condemns Move, Warns of Military Action

Reacting sharply, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio denounced the Iranian decision as “economic suicide,” warning that a blockade would invite a forceful American and allied response. “If they do that, it will be another terrible mistake,” he said. “It’s economic suicide for them.”

Rubio also appealed directly to China, Iran’s top oil customer, to intervene diplomatically and prevent Tehran from following through. “I encourage the Chinese government in Beijing to call them about that, because they heavily depend on the Strait of Hormuz for their oil,” he said in a televised interview.

Military Tensions Surge

In anticipation of further escalation, the Pentagon has placed US military forces across the Gulf region on high alert. Officials confirm that naval assets are being repositioned to ensure the strait remains open, with the U.S. Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, reportedly preparing for potential maritime confrontations.

Defense analysts note that any sustained disruption of shipping through the strait would represent not just a regional challenge, but a direct threat to global energy security. Some shipping companies have already rerouted or recalled vessels from the area, citing increasing risks.

Echoes of the Tanker War

Iran’s parliamentary decision marks the gravest threat to international oil supply chains since the Tanker War of the 1980s, when both Iran and Iraq attacked commercial shipping during their prolonged conflict. This time, however, the global stakes are even higher. With oil markets still volatile post-pandemic and war tensions mounting across multiple regions—from Gaza to Ukraine to the South China Sea—the international economy has little room for another shock.

Current disruptions to aviation and commercial shipping in West Asia have already impacted global trade schedules. A closure of Hormuz, experts say, would be unprecedented in scale and could trigger economic instability, inflation, and potential fuel shortages worldwide.

Iran: “Everlasting Consequences”

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi, in the regime’s first official response since the US-Israel strikes, warned that Trump’s decision to bomb Iranian sites would bring “everlasting consequences.” Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei echoed those sentiments, calling the Israeli assault a “grave mistake” that “must be punished.” While neither leader has directly referenced the strait’s closure, the tone suggests Iran is prepared for a drawn-out confrontation.

Meanwhile, inside Iran, state broadcaster Press TV confirmed that the measure to close the strait had passed with unanimous support in parliament, underscoring national unity behind retaliation. However, the global community remains focused on whether Iran’s top leadership will act on the motion—or use it as a bargaining tool in an evolving geopolitical standoff.

Also Read: ‘Pandora’s Box Is Open’: Russia Warns US Over Strikes at Iran Nuclear Sites