Iran's parliament votes to close Strait of Hormuz after US attacks
www.newsweek.com
The vote took place Sunday after the U.S. on Saturday evening hit three Iranian nuclear sites and significantly damaged the country's capabilities.

Following U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities on Saturday, the Iranian Parliament has voted in support of closing the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints, according to media reports.

Any final decision on retaliation, however, will rest with the country’s Supreme National Security Council and le

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Around 20 percent of global oil trade passes through the Strait. Some experts have said that if Iran were to cut off access to the Strait, it could spike oil prices by 30 to 50 percent immediately, with gas prices likewise rising by as much as $5 per gallon.

  • Distractor@lemm.eeEnglish
    218·
    9 hours ago

    I actually asked Le Chat yesterday, what would happen if oil became irrelevant:

    If oil were not a valuable resource, the geopolitical interests in the Middle East would likely shift, but the region would still hold significance for several other reasons. Here are some potential international geopolitical interests that could remain:

    1. Strategic Location: The Middle East’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it a crucial area for global trade and military strategy. Control over key waterways, such as the Suez Canal, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Bab el-Mandeb, would continue to be of great importance for international shipping and naval power projection.
    1. Trade Routes: The region serves as a vital land bridge and maritime corridor for global trade. Ensuring the security and stability of these trade routes would remain a priority for international powers.
    1. Religious and Cultural Significance: The Middle East is home to some of the world’s most important religious sites for Islam, Christianity, Judaism, and other faiths. The custodianship of these sites and the influence over religious narratives would continue to be of interest to various state and non-state actors.
    1. Security Concerns: The Middle East has been a hotspot for terrorism, insurgencies, and regional conflicts. International powers would likely remain engaged in the region to address security concerns, prevent the spread of extremism, and maintain regional stability.
    1. Alliances and Partnerships: Many countries have established alliances and partnerships with Middle Eastern states based on shared interests, security agreements, and historical ties. These relationships would likely continue, albeit with a different focus.
    1. Economic Interests: Beyond oil, the Middle East has other economic resources and opportunities, such as minerals, agriculture, and emerging markets. International investment and economic cooperation in these areas could continue to drive geopolitical interests.
    1. Humanitarian and Development Issues: The Middle East faces numerous humanitarian challenges, including refugees, internal displacement, and development needs. International actors may remain engaged in the region to address these issues and promote human rights and development.
    1. Regional Power Dynamics: The Middle East has several regional powers with their own geopolitical ambitions and rivalries. International actors may seek to influence these dynamics to maintain a balance of power and protect their interests.
    1. Technological and Scientific Collaboration: The region has potential for technological and scientific advancements, particularly in areas like renewable energy, desalination, and agriculture. Collaboration in these fields could be of mutual interest.

    In summary, while the value of oil has significantly shaped international geopolitical interests in the Middle East, the region’s strategic location, cultural significance, security concerns, and economic opportunities would likely ensure continued engagement from global powers. The nature and extent of this engagement would depend on a complex interplay of factors and evolving global priorities.