Iran’s Blockade of Strait of Hormuz: A Critical Review of Global Energy Supply
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s busiest oil shipping channels, has been virtually blocked by Iran in response to “Operation Epic Fury,” which began on February 28, 2026. The blocking of the strait has sent ripples across the world because about 20% of the world’s oil and LNG traffic passes through this narrow waterway.
The Strait of Hormuz is bounded to the north by Iran and to the south by Oman and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is only roughly 50 kilometres, or about 31 miles, wide at its entrance and departure, and just about 33 kilometres wide at its narrowest point. Iran controls the steep northern portion of the strait, using radars to efficiently monitor traffic passing through the strait from its hills.
Global Energy Supply Under Threat
The blocking of the Strait of Hormuz has sent energy prices soaring across the world. The price of crude oil has increased to over $100 per barrel, up nearly 50% from a year ago and nearly 70% this year. The increase in oil and gas prices is also due to frequent attacks on gas fields in the wake of tit-for-tat attacks.
The strait’s closure has had significant implications for global energy supply. About 90 million tons of LNG move through the strait annually, accounting for nearly 25% of global trade. Additionally, the US Energy Information Administration (EIA) estimated that about 20 million barrels of oil and oil products crossed the strait every single day in 2025. This amounts to an annual energy exchange of $600 billion.
Regional Escalation: A Bloody War
The conflict has escalated into a brutal and bloody war between Iran, the US, and Israel. The two sides have been engaged in a full-blown military retaliation and regional escalation that has claimed many lives. The blocking of the Strait of Hormuz is part of Iran’s strategy to challenge its adversaries.
Ebrahim Jabari, a senior adviser to the Guards commander-in-chief, announced after the first attack: “The strait (of Hormuz) is closed. If anyone tries to pass, the heroes of the Revolutionary Guards and the regular navy will set those ships ablaze.”
International Response
The international community has been quick to respond to the crisis. US President Donald Trump has called on his NATO allies to help open the Strait of Hormuz. The blocking of the strait has also led to a significant drop in oil traffic, with the number of ships passing through the strait dropping from 3,000 to just a few hundred.
The impact of the blockade has been far-reaching, with global energy supply under threat. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to this critical crisis.
Original Article: India & China “Bypass” Iran’s Near-Blockade of Strait of Hormuz; Secure Exceptions as Oil Traffic Drops By 95% — Eurasiantimes