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No one controls the Strait of Hormuz – not even Iran: Understanding the US blockade

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The article discusses the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that no single nation, including Iran, truly controls it. It highlights the increasing global division and potential implications of a US blockade.
  • The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime chokepoint for global oil trade, with approximately 30% of global oil shipments passing through it.
  • Iran's ability to unilaterally control or close the strait is limited due to its geography and the presence of international naval forces.
  • A US blockade, while a theoretical option, would have severe global economic repercussions, potentially triggering widespread conflict and further fragmenting the international community.
  • Such a blockade would significantly impact global energy markets, leading to sharp price increases and supply disruptions for numerous countries.
  • The article suggests that while Iran may threaten to disrupt passage, its actual capacity to enforce such a blockade is questionable and would come at a high cost.
  • The author, Lars Jensen, points to a growing division in the global landscape, implying that actions like a blockade would exacerbate these tensions.
  • The effectiveness and feasibility of a blockade are weighed against the potential for escalation and the broader geopolitical consequences.
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