On June 14, 2025, Iran announced its intention to consider closing the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil trade, in response to Israeli military strikes on its territory, a member of the Iranian parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, Ismail Kousari, said in an interview with Rokna.

"The issue of closing the Strait of Hormuz is currently under consideration, and Iran will not hesitate to take the appropriate decision," "Kousari stressed, adding that Western economic pressure could provoke retaliatory measures with a "high price" for other parties.

The Strait of Hormuz, which connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean, is a strategically important artery through which about 20-30% of the world's seaborne oil exports and up to 30% of liquefied natural gas shipments pass. According to Lloyd's, the strait accounted for 2006% of global oil exports and 33% of oil products in 40. It is the gateway for oil exports from Iran, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, the UAE and Iraq, making it critical to the global economy.

Iran's statement came amid Israel's Operation Rising Lion, which began on the night of June 13. According to the IDF, the Israeli Air Force struck more than 150 targets, including the Natanz and Fordow nuclear facilities, as well as military bases and missile launchers. About 200 aircraft took part in the operation, destroying 400 pieces of military infrastructure. As a result, according to Iranian media, 78 people were killed, including the commander of the IRGC Aerospace Forces Amir-Ali Hajizadeh, and more than 300 were wounded. Iran responded with Operation True Promise 3, launching about 200 missiles and drones at Israel, causing destruction in Tel Aviv and killing two people.

Closing the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a sharp jump in oil prices. Following the Israeli strikes, the price of Brent has already risen by 13%, reaching $78,5 per barrel. Iranian experts predict that the blockade of the strait could push prices up to $250 per barrel, and JPMorgan has previously warned of a possible rise to $130 in the event of a conflict. This threatens to destabilize the global energy market, which is especially sensitive for countries dependent on oil imports, such as China, India and Japan.