At the center of the growing crisis is the Strait of Hormuz — one of the most important waterways on Earth. Nearly 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas passes through the narrow passage every day. Any disruption there immediately sends shockwaves through global energy markets.
Over the past months, Iran has tightened its control over the area while increasing pressure on US allies in the Gulf. In response, the United States has expanded military operations and maintained a naval blockade around Iranian ports in an attempt to force Tehran into accepting American conditions for a new agreement.
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