The Iranian parliament approved a draft law that permits the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the vital marine corridor for the export of global oil, in response to the recent military strikes by the United States and Israel, and what Tehran described as “continuous violations of its national sovereignty.”
A parliamentary decision awaiting final approval
The decision was announced during an extraordinary session of the Islamic Shura Council on Sunday, and the project is granted a legal cover to close the strait, but its implementation is still pending the approval of the Supreme National Security Council, the highest security authority in the country.
Rising tension after targeting nuclear facilities
This escalation came after air strikes carried out by the United States and Israel targeting Iranian nuclear and military facilities, most notably sites in Natanz and Fordo, which increased tension in the region.
Protecting national security and maritime sovereignty
Representatives in Parliament said that the decision is necessary to protect Iranian national security, and to emphasize Tehran’s full sovereignty over its territorial waters. Representative Ismail Kothari added: “The closure of the Strait of Hormuz Matrouh on the table and will be implemented when necessary … It is not possible to allow hostile countries to threaten our existence while benefiting from our marine paths.”
Global effect on energy markets
About 20% of global oil production passes through this narrow corridor daily. Any disruption in the strait can cause a crisis in global supply chains.
The decision is in the hands of the National Security Council
Despite the vote of Parliament, the actual executive measure to close the strait requires the approval of the Supreme National Security Council, led by the President in Bashkkian and under the supervision of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
No timetable for closing
It has not been announced yet a clear date for the implementation of the closure, or whether it will be done in the first place, but the parliamentary vote transmits the threat from the stage of statements to the stage of legal positions.
A repeated threat … but this time is different
Iran has already spoken to close the strait during periods of tension, but analysts believe that this time is different, as the decision comes directly after the strikes of the Iranian infrastructure, and escalating frictions with the American forces in the Gulf.
The United Nations calls for calm
For its part, the United Nations warned of escalation, calling on all parties to control, and asserting that closing the strait may lead to an economic and humanitarian catastrophe worldwide.
Iran justifies that it is defending itself
Official media reported that the parliament’s decision aims to send a clear message that “the ongoing aggression will have consequences,” although the consequences of this move – whether in terms of military intervention or economic isolation – may be dire on Iran itself.
