Why is it in the news?
Iran temporarily closed parts of Strait of Hormuz for naval drills.
The move coincides with nuclear negotiations between Iran and the US.
Category: International Relations
Important Points:
● Strait lies between Iran (north) and Oman & UAE (south)
● Connects Persian Gulf with Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea
● 55–95 km wide strategic chokepoint
● About 20% of global oil and gas passes through it
● 80% of oil via strait heads to Asian markets
● Nearly 50% of India’s crude oil imports transit through it
● Iran earlier used strait leverage during 1980s Tanker War
● Alternative pipelines exist but limited capacity