Strait of Hormuz: Oil Chokepoint Between Iran and Oman
Why in the news
Tensions involving Iran, Israel and the United States put the Strait of Hormuz in focus, with fears that conflict could disrupt oil and LNG shipments.
Key facts
- A vital sea passage taking a large share of world oil and gas exports from the Persian Gulf to global markets; a top energy chokepoint.
- Location: between Iran (north) and Oman (south); links the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean.
- Narrowest width about 33 km; shipping lanes about 3 km wide each way.
Importance
- Significant share of global crude and LNG trade; Gulf oil flows to Asia, Europe and elsewhere.
- Exporters using it: Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, Iran, UAE.
History
| Period | Event |
|---|---|
| 1973 | Arab Oil Embargo |
| 1980-88 | Iran-Iraq War, “Tanker War” |
| 2012, 2019, 2023-24 | Tanker seizures and sanctions tensions |
Exam angle
- Borders: Iran and Oman.
- Narrowest width: about 33 km.