Iran’s parliament has approved a motion to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, according to state-run Press TV. While the final decision lies with Iran’s National Security Council, energy and geopolitical experts believe an actual closure remains unlikely due to potential severe economic fallout.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital global oil transit route, carrying about 20% of the world’s petroleum supply. Experts warn that blocking it could alienate Iran’s key trade partners—especially China, which relies heavily on Iranian oil—and provoke retaliation from neighboring Gulf states and the U.S.

Energy analysts emphasize that Iran has much to lose, with 1.5 million barrels per day of crude passing through the strait in Q1 2025. A full or even partial blockade could raise oil prices and risk Iran’s own export infrastructure.

Although current maritime reports show no disruptions to shipping, even the threat of closure has sparked fears of rising fuel prices in the U.S. and global energy market volatility.