Iran’s Parliament Votes to Consider Closing Strait of Hormuz Following US Airstrikes
Iran’s Parliament Votes to Consider Closing Strait of Hormuz Following US Airstrikes
Following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, Iran’s parliament voted to approve a plan to potentially close the Strait of Hormuz. The final decision rests with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council. The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial waterway for global oil transport, with approximately 20% of the world’s oil passing through it daily. In May 2025, Iran exported 1.84 million barrels per day, primarily to China.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged China to intervene and prevent Iran from closing the Strait. He highlighted China’s significant reliance on Iranian oil, with imports exceeding 1.8 million barrels per day in a recent month, according to data from ship tracking firm Vortexa. US President Donald Trump also issued a statement urging parties to keep oil prices down.
The US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities occurred over the weekend. The extent of the damage remains unclear, with conflicting reports from Iran and the UN’s nuclear watchdog. Iran reported only minor damage to the Fordo underground nuclear site. President Trump warned Iran of further attacks if it does not abandon its nuclear program.
China responded to the US airstrikes by stating that the actions damaged Washington’s credibility and called for an immediate ceasefire. The Global Times, a state-run newspaper in China, criticized US involvement in the conflict, suggesting it further destabilized the Middle East.
The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz has raised concerns about the global economy. Analysts have warned that a prolonged closure could significantly increase oil prices, potentially exceeding $100 per barrel. While the US Fifth Fleet is responsible for safeguarding maritime trade in the Persian Gulf, the potential for escalation remains a concern.
The Iranian state-run Press TV reported on the parliamentary vote to consider closing the Strait, emphasizing that the final decision rests with the Supreme National Security Council. Tehran has stated it will reserve all options to defend itself against the US actions.
Brent crude oil prices initially rose following the US airstrikes and the news of the parliamentary vote, reaching $81.40 a barrel before retreating to approximately $76.30. The cost of crude oil impacts various aspects of the global economy, including fuel prices and food costs.
In summary, the situation involves a complex interplay between Iran’s response to US military action, the potential disruption of global oil supplies via the Strait of Hormuz, and the involvement of major global powers such as China and the United States. The final decision regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz remains pending with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
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