Iran closes Strait of Hormuz: Fears of instability in global oil markets

The Iranian parliament has approved the closure of the Strait of Hormuz in response to the US military attack on nuclear facilities. A news report broadcast on Iranian state television on Sunday afternoon reported that the parliament has approved the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is now the responsibility of the country's Supreme Security Council.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most important energy transport routes. About 20 percent of the total oil and gas supply to the world market is transported through this waterway near the coast of Iran. Major oil exporting countries, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, use this route to conduct their export activities.

It is feared that the closure of the Strait will have a major impact on the global energy market. Analysts believe that if oil supplies are disrupted, prices on the world market may suddenly increase, which will cause instability in the global economy. In addition, the movement of US warships stationed in the Persian Gulf may also be affected.

Esmail Kosari, a senior commander of Iran's Revolutionary Guard, said in an interview with the Young Journalists Club news agency, "Closing the Strait of Hormuz is on our national agenda. If necessary, we will take this step."

The tension began after the US military operation known as 'Operation Midnight Hammer'. In this operation carried out late on Saturday night, US General Dan Cain claimed that three of Iran's most important nuclear facilities were largely destroyed. He said that US forces worked in complete secrecy in the operation and that Iran was unable to mount any resistance.

Analysts say that this incident could further increase tensions in the Middle East and there is a risk of a direct military conflict. If Iran really closes the Strait of Hormuz, it would be a major blow not only to energy, but also to the entire global economy.