The Strait of Hormuz has a long history of disruption - AP News

The Strait of Hormuz, a waterway between Iran and Oman, has experienced repeated disruptions throughout its modern history, making it a chronically unstable chokepoint for global energy transport. The passage is one of the world's most strategically critical sea lanes, carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil trade and serving as a vital corridor for maritime commerce. Instability in the region—whether from Iranian actions, regional conflicts, or security incidents—threatens global energy prices and supply chains. The strait's vulnerability stems from its narrow geography and Iran's geographic advantage, allowing the country to exert significant leverage over international shipping. These recurring disruptions underscore why maritime security and freedom of navigation in the Hormuz remain central concerns for the U.S. and its allies.