Fact Check: Iran Parliament Endorses Closing the Strait of Hormuz, Risking Oil Price Spike
What We Know
On June 22, 2025, Iran's parliament approved a measure endorsing the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global oil shipments, following U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites. Approximately 20% of the world's oil and gas transit through this narrow channel, which connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. The closure of the strait could lead to significant increases in fuel costs for consumers worldwide, including those in the United States (USA Today, Gulf News).
However, it is important to note that while the parliament's endorsement is a significant political gesture, the actual decision to close the strait rests with Iran's Supreme National Security Council, which has not yet made a definitive move to implement this measure (Axios, The Hindu).
Analysis
The claim that Iran's parliament has endorsed closing the Strait of Hormuz is accurate, as multiple credible sources confirm this development (USA Today, Gulf News). The potential for an oil price spike is also supported by the fact that disruptions in this vital shipping lane could lead to increased fuel costs globally. Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized any attempt to close the strait as an escalation that could provoke a strong international response, suggesting that such a move would be detrimental to Iran (USA Today).
However, the reliability of the claim hinges on the distinction between parliamentary endorsement and actual implementation. While the parliament's approval is a significant step, it does not guarantee that the closure will occur. Historical context is also relevant; Iran has threatened to close the strait in the past but has not followed through on such threats due to the potential repercussions (Reuters).
The sources used in this analysis vary in their potential biases. For example, U.S. media outlets like USA Today and Axios may present the situation with a perspective that emphasizes the risks to global oil markets, while Iranian state media might downplay the consequences of such actions. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the broader geopolitical context when evaluating the implications of this parliamentary decision.
Conclusion
The claim that Iran's parliament has endorsed closing the Strait of Hormuz, thereby risking an oil price spike, is Partially True. While the endorsement is indeed factual and highlights a significant political stance, the actual closure of the strait is contingent upon further decisions by Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Thus, while the potential for increased oil prices exists, the immediate risk is not guaranteed.
Sources
- Iran oil doomsday in Hormuz may be more fear than reality - Reuters
- L’Iran dévoile une « ville de missiles » souterraine (vidéo) - JForum
- Iran calls for closing Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil and gas route - USA Today
- Iran parliament reportedly backs closure of oil transit channel - Axios
- Iran: une cyberattaque de grande ampleur paralyse les banques - JForum
- Iran parliament approves closure of Strait of Hormuz amid regional tensions - Gulf News
- Iranian Parliament votes to close vital Strait of Hormuz after US strikes on nuclear sites - The Hindu
- 中国的三个缩写 PRC CHN CN，各用在什么场合或领域？ - Zhihu
