Iran’s parliament has approved a proposal to close the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route through which about 20 percent of the world’s oil flows, in direct response to recent U.S. airstrikes on three of its nuclear facilities. However, the measure is not yet in effect, pending final authorization from Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The decision, passed in Tehran over the weekend, follows rising tensions after American B-2 bombers reportedly struck Iran’s nuclear sites in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The parliamentary vote marks a significant escalation, but its implementation will ultimately rest with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and the Supreme Leader himself.
Lawmaker Esmaeil Kowsari, speaking on state television, confirmed the vote and emphasized that “the final decision lies with the leadership.” Iran’s leadership has not yet issued an official decree enforcing the closure.
The Strait of Hormuz, only about 40 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, serves as the primary passage for oil and natural gas exports from the Gulf. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, it carried more than 20 million barrels of crude oil per day in 2024.
Global markets have already responded cautiously, with analysts warning that even limited disruption could send oil prices above $90 per barrel. International powers including China have urged restraint, and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that any closure would trigger a strong response from Washington and could severely damage Iran’s own economy.
