Fact Check: "20 million barrels per day flow through the Strait of Hormuz."
What We Know
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial maritime chokepoint located between Oman and Iran, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. It is one of the most significant routes for global oil transportation. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), in 2024, oil flow through the Strait of Hormuz averaged 20 million barrels per day (b/d), which is approximately 20% of global petroleum liquids consumption. This figure has been consistent since at least 2020, indicating the strait's vital role in the global oil supply chain (CBS News).
In addition, the EIA noted that during the first quarter of 2025, oil flows through the strait remained stable compared to the previous year, further emphasizing its importance in international energy markets (EIA). The strait also facilitates the transit of a significant portion of the world's liquefied natural gas, primarily from Qatar, which underscores its critical role in global energy security (EIA).
Analysis
The claim that "20 million barrels per day flow through the Strait of Hormuz" is supported by multiple credible sources, including the EIA and CBS News. The EIA is a reputable government agency that provides reliable data on energy production and consumption, making its reports a trustworthy foundation for this claim. The consistency of the reported figure across different years and the acknowledgment of its importance by various energy analysts further validate the claim.
However, it is essential to consider the context in which this data is presented. While the strait is a major conduit for oil, there are alternative routes available, albeit with limited capacity. For example, Saudi Arabia and the UAE have pipelines that can bypass the Strait of Hormuz, but these do not operate at full capacity and cannot fully replace the strait's role in oil transportation (EIA, CBS News). This potential for alternative routes does not negate the claim but highlights the strait's unique importance in the global oil supply chain.
Moreover, the geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly involving Iran, often raise concerns about the security of oil transit through the strait. Analysts have noted that any disruption in this chokepoint could lead to significant increases in oil prices and supply delays, which further emphasizes the strategic significance of the 20 million b/d figure (Reuters, DW).
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that "20 million barrels per day flow through the Strait of Hormuz" is accurate based on multiple credible sources, including the EIA and CBS News. The data consistently supports this figure, highlighting the strait's critical role in global oil transportation and energy security. The analysis of alternative routes and geopolitical factors does not diminish the validity of the claim but rather contextualizes its importance in the broader energy landscape.
Sources
- Amid regional conflict, the Strait of Hormuz remains critical oil ... EIA
- World Oil Transit Chokepoints EIA
- Iran oil doomsday in Hormuz may be more fear than reality Reuters
- What is the Strait of Hormuz, and why is it important? - CBS News CBS News
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- Strait of Hormuz oil flows at risk amid Israel-Iran tensions DW
