Following the US air strikes at Iranian nuclear facilities under “Operation Midnight Hammer”, Iran’s parliament approved a proposal to close the Strait of Hormuz.
Operation Midnight Hammer
- Locations Targeted: U.S. targeted Iran’s nuclear sites-Natanz, Isfahan, & Fordow.
- These sites are central to Iran’s nuclear program that accelerated after the US. Withdrew from 2018 Iran nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action[VI1] ).
- Weaponry Used: B-2 Stealth Bombers, GBU-57 bunker buster bombs (Massive Ordnance Penetrator), & Tomahawk missiles.
The Strait of Hormuz
- It is a crucial maritime passage that connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman & the Arabian Sea.
- It Spans about 167 km & narrowing to just 33 km at its slimmest point.
Implications of Closure
- Impacts Global Energy Security: It is critical chokepoint for global energy supplies. Around 20% of global oil & LNG trade passes through the Strait.
- Strategic Importance: It is the only viable maritime route connecting major Gulf oil producers like Saudi Arabia, UAE, & Kuwait etc. to international markets.
- Inflation Risk: Disruption would spike energy prices, triggering inflation.
Impact on India
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