ANALYSIS: Iran’s Threat to Close the Strait of Hormuz Risks Backfiring on Its Own Regime

The escalating war between Israel and Iran has revived fears that Tehran might attempt to block the Strait of Hormuz — the world’s most critical oil chokepoint — in retaliation. This narrow waterway, only 21 miles wide at the tightest spot, funnels about 20 million barrels of oil every day, representing roughly one-fifth of the globe's daily consumption. Any disruption there would send shockwaves through the global economy. Strategic Geography and Tehran’s Military Posture The strait sits between Oman and Iran, where Iranian forces maintain a significant naval presence including fast-attack boats, thousands of naval mines, and missile capabilities. Their...