Tehran: Iran’s Parliament has approved a proposal to close the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz in response to recent United States airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The final decision, however, lies with the Supreme National Security Council.
The airstrikes, which targeted key Iranian sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan early Sunday, have provoked strong reactions from Tehran. Lawmakers have labeled the move as “foreign aggression,” and a senior parliamentarian stated that closing the Strait is a legitimate and proportionate response, according to Reuters.
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Syed Abbas Araghchi, confirmed that the government is actively exploring a wide range of retaliatory options amid mounting pressure to act decisively.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints, facilitating nearly one-fifth of global petroleum trade and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas. Experts warn that any disruption could cause oil prices to surge beyond USD 100 per barrel, severely affecting energy-dependent nations like India, China, and many European countries.
India, which imports a large share of its crude through this passage, is likely to face immediate supply challenges if the waterway is blocked.
The move comes amid heightened regional instability, and analysts fear that any military miscalculation could spiral into a larger conflict affecting global markets.
