Iran’s parliament has voted to close the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping lane through which about 20% of the world’s oil passes, potentially blocking $1 billion in daily oil shipments and driving prices higher.

The closure awaits approval from Iran’s Supreme Council.

The narrow strait is vulnerable to disruption through naval mines, missile attacks, and small boat swarms, tactics Iran may use based on previous proxy conflicts like those in Yemen.

While such a move could severely impact global oil supply—especially for Asia—it would also harm Iran’s own economy and likely provoke a strong US naval response, the New York Post has reported.

Experts suggest Iran’s threat serves more as leverage than an actual intent to close the strait.

Written by B.C. Begley