Why the Strait of Hormuz is the World's Most Vital Oil Trade Route

The Strait of Hormuz has become a major topic of discussion following Israel and the United States attacking Iran on Saturday, 28 February 2026. In retaliation for this strike, Iran closed the strait, causing crude oil and natural gas prices to spike sharply.

The Strait of Hormuz is only approximately 33 kilometres wide. Despite its small size, the strait serves as a vital link between the oil-rich Persian Gulf and the rest of the world. This makes it one of the busiest and most strategically important sea routes on Earth.