Iran is actually blocking the Strait of Hormuz

Iran steps up pressure in the Strait of Hormuz: traffic plummets

Military Observer Bild Julian Röpecke said that Iran had actually launched a military blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.

According to his estimate, sea traffic through the strait has decreased by about 90%, which indicates a serious impact of Tehran's actions on global energy logistics.

Attack on a tanker

Iranian forces reportedly attacked the tanker Skylight, which is associated with the so-called Iranian-Russian «shadow fleet».

The vessel was flying the flag of Palau and was carrying, among other things, Iranian oil. It is under US and European Union sanctions.

Why it matters

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the key routes for global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.

A sharp drop in shipping could:

- provoke a jump in global oil prices
- disrupt global supply chains
- increase the risk of direct military conflict in the region

Context.

The escalation in the Persian Gulf is taking place against the backdrop of a sharp escalation between Iran, the United States and Israel.

Analysts warn that further attacks on tankers or the closure of the strait could have global economic consequences.