In a significant and potentially destabilizing development, the Iranian Parliament has voted in favor of closing the Strait of Hormuz, a globally critical chokepoint for oil transit. This parliamentary decision comes as a direct response to the recent U.S. “Operation Midnight Hammer,” which saw American forces launch extensive airstrikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.
The parliamentary vote underscores Iran’s willingness to leverage its strategic position in the Persian Gulf in retaliation for perceived aggression. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most vital maritime arteries, through which a substantial portion of global seaborne oil passes daily. Its closure, even temporarily, would have severe ramifications for international energy markets and global economies.
This move by the Iranian Parliament follows the U.S. military operation, where American B-2 stealth bombers and Tomahawk cruise missiles targeted key Iranian nuclear sites. President Donald Trump has asserted that “Operation Midnight Hammer,” a twenty-five-minute offensive involving 125 aircraft, successfully “obliterated” the designated targets. However, General Dan Caine cautioned that a full assessment of the damage would require more time.
While the parliamentary vote signals Iran’s intent and serves as a powerful political statement, the final authority to close the Strait of Hormuz rests with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council and ultimately, with Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This hierarchical decision-making process indicates that the parliamentary vote is an advisory measure, yet it reflects a strong sentiment within Iran’s political establishment to retaliate against the U.S. strikes.
The threat of closing the Strait of Hormuz adds a dangerous new dimension to the escalating conflict between Iran and the United States, as well as its allies. The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with concerns mounting over the potential for further military escalation and severe disruptions to global commerce. The ball is now in the court of Iran’s supreme leadership, whose decision will determine the immediate future of this critical waterway and regional stability.