A senior official from the European Union’s naval mission Aspides conveyed a critical message on Saturday. VHF transmissions indicate that Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have directed ships not to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This strait serves as the lifeline for major oil producers, including Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates, linking them with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
The strait is a vital artery in global energy trade, underpinning economic stability across the region. With its narrow width, it carries approximately 20% of the world’s oil exports, making any disruption potentially catastrophic for international markets.
An official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, confirmed Iran’s threat but noted that no formal confirmation had been received from Tehran. The Islamic Republic has repeatedly threatened blockades as a form of retaliation against attacks on its sovereignty and interests.
Despite this warning, there have already been reports of ships altering their courses, slowing down, or stopping in the Strait due to potential restrictions. Laura Page, a representative from consultancy Kpler, informed that at least 14 LNG tankers had shown signs of delaying their passage, with this number expected to increase. These actions pose significant risks for Qatari exports of liquefied natural gas (LNG), an essential sector contributing significantly to the global energy market.
The European Union’s naval mission remains vigilant and is in close coordination with its international allies to monitor developments and ensure maritime security during these heightened tensions. The stakes are high as any disruption could trigger significant geopolitical shifts, impacting economies worldwide.