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On Sunday, Iran’s parliament approved a proposal to close the Strait of Hormuz, according to Reuters, citing Iranian state outlet Press TV.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, and is often described as a lifeline for the global energy supply.
According to Reuters, the decision to close the strait is not yet final. The ultimate authority lies with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, which have not given the final approval.
Threats, mines and attacks
Goldman Sachs outlined a scenario in which Iran might close the strait using threats, actual attacks, and miles.
In this scenario, an estimated 15–16 million barrels of crude oil and 4–5 million barrels of refined products per day could be disrupted.
“This is clearly not a situation the oil market is equipped to manage. We would likely see prices rise above $100 per barrel, with trading in the $120–$150 range — similar to the price surge seen when Russia first invaded Ukraine,” the Goldman Sachs analysis stated.
"It will be done when necessary"
Esmail Kosari, a commander in Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and a member of parliament, confirmed that the closure of the strait is being considered.
“It will be done when necessary,” Kosari said, according to Reuters.
In an interview with the Young Journalists Club on Sunday, he noted that closure is an active item on the agenda, though no final decision has been made.
Shipping giants continue operations
Despite rising tensions, shipping giants Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd said on Sunday afternoon that they would continue sailing through the strait, according to Reuters.
Both companies issued separate statements emphasizing ongoing risk assessments, noting that the situation could change rapidly.