The U.S. is urging China to help stop Iran from closing the Strait of Hormuz — a narrow waterway that carries about 20% of the world’s oil and gas.
Read also: Could Iran Blockade the Strait of Hormuz?
Tensions have spiked after recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Now, U.S. officials fear Iran may retaliate by blocking the strait, which would disrupt global energy supplies and spike oil prices.
U.S. National Security Adviser Marco Rubio warned Iran that closing the strait would be a “grave mistake” and would hurt the global economy — especially countries like China that rely heavily on the route for energy imports.
Iran’s parliament has supported the idea of a closure, but the final call will come from its top security council.
Shipping expert Lars Jensen said even the threat of closure could be enough to scare ships away and reroute traffic. A top EU diplomat also warned that any move to block the strait would be dangerous for everyone.
Meanwhile, insurance costs for ships in the region have already jumped due to the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel, adding more pressure on global trade.
