The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway located between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. It is one of the most strategically important chokepoints in the world, serving as a critical maritime route for the transportation of oil and natural gas.
Key Features:
1. Location: The Strait of Hormuz is situated at the entrance of the Persian Gulf, bordered by Iran to the north and Oman to the south.
2. Width: It is approximately 21 miles wide at its narrowest point, making it a strategically significant passage for maritime traffic.
3. Importance: The strait is crucial for global energy security as it serves as a transit point for around one-fifth of the world's oil supply. The majority of oil exports from the Persian Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, pass through this narrow channel.
4. Geopolitical Significance: Due to its strategic location, the Strait of Hormuz has historically been a flashpoint for tensions between regional and global powers. It has witnessed numerous conflicts and acts of maritime piracy over the years.
5. International Law: The strait falls under the jurisdiction of international waters, meaning all vessels have the right of transit passage through the strait, irrespective of their origin or destination. However, coastal states have some rights to regulate navigational safety and security in the area.
6. Military Presence: The strait is closely monitored by naval forces from various countries, including the United States, Iran, and several Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nations. These navies conduct patrols and ensure the safe passage of commercial vessels through the strait.
7. Environmental Concerns: The strait is also ecologically significant, supporting diverse marine life. Oil spills or other forms of pollution in the area can have severe environmental consequences.
8. Potential for Disruption: Given its importance, any threats to the free flow of oil through the Strait of Hormuz can significantly impact global energy markets. Any disruptions, whether due to geopolitical tensions, piracy, or other factors, can lead to increased oil prices and global economic instability.
In summary, the Strait of Hormuz is a narrow waterway connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, serving as a vital route for global energy transportation. Its strategic significance, coupled with its history of geopolitical tensions, makes it a critically important location in the world.
STRAIT OF HORMUZ
It separates Iran and Oman, linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
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