International media outlets have begun reporting, citing Iran’s Press TV, that the Iranian parliament has approved closing the Strait of Hormuz, the main waterway through which many Middle Eastern countries export oil and gas. The Iranian parliament approved closing the Strait of Hormuz following the United States’ involvement in Israel’s ongoing attacks against Iran and its strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. After the attacks on Iran, U.S. President Donald Trump, addressing the American people, described the strikes as highly successful and called for Iran to immediately cease its attacks on Israel.
Although Iran’s parliament has approved closing the Strait of Hormuz, the final decision on this matter rests with the Iranian government. Media reports also cite some leaders of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as saying they are ready to implement this action at any time. According to reports, closing this strait, through which 20 percent of the world’s oil and gas travels, would have negative consequences. The impact would be particularly significant for countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iraq, which use this strait to export oil and gas.
In response to Israel’s initial attacks, Iran has also launched missile and drone strikes targeting important areas in Israel. Reports suggest that these attacks have caused unprecedented damage to Israel. While many Western countries have expressed solidarity with the United States regarding its strikes on Iran, numerous Middle Eastern countries, along with Turkey, China, and Russia, have expressed concern over this attack.
