Iran's Parliament Votes to Close Strait of Hormuz After U.S. Strikes

In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Iran's Parliament voted on June 22, 2025, to close the Strait of Hormuz in response to recent U.S. military strikes on its nuclear facilities. This strategic waterway is crucial, as approximately 20% of the world's oil supply transits through it daily. The decision now awaits approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

The parliamentary vote follows the United States' execution of "Operation Midnight Hammer" on June 22, targeting Iranian nuclear sites at Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. The operation involved over 125 aircraft, including seven B-2 bombers, and employed 75 precision-guided munitions, among them 14 bunker-buster bombs. U.S. officials reported that all munitions hit their intended targets, causing significant damage to Iran's nuclear infrastructure. axios.com

In retaliation, Iran's Parliament voted to close the Strait of Hormuz. Senior lawmaker Esmaeil Kowsari confirmed the consensus, stating that the move is a reaction to U.S. aggression and global inaction. He emphasized that the final decision rests with the Supreme National Security Council.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime passage connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Approximately 20% of the world's oil and gas supply transits through this narrow waterway daily, making it a vital artery for global energy markets. cnbc.com

The potential closure has raised significant concerns about global energy markets and geopolitical stability. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has urged China to use its influence to prevent Iran from closing the strait, emphasizing the severe economic and geopolitical repercussions such an action could entail. cnbc.com

The international community, including the European Union, has expressed deep concern over the potential closure, highlighting the risks of escalating conflict and retaliation associated with such an action. cnbc.com

Analysts warn that any disruption could trigger a significant spike in oil prices. Goldman Sachs estimated that Brent crude could climb to $110 per barrel if the Strait closure became protracted; Citigroup forecasted approximately $90 per barrel for short-term disruption. cnbc.com

Iran has previously threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz during periods of heightened tension, notably during the 2011–2012 dispute. However, the strait has never been closed during Middle East conflicts, unlike the Straits of Tiran. en.wikipedia.org

The situation remains fluid, with the international community closely monitoring developments. The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz represents a significant escalation in regional tensions, with far-reaching implications for global energy markets and geopolitical stability.