The Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime passage that connects the Arabian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman, has recently experienced heightened tension as U.S. military presence in the region increases. Despite the steady flow of supertankers traversing the strait, Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces keep a vigilant watch over this vital shipping lane, which accounts for approximately 20% of global oil transported by sea. This careful monitoring underscores the importance of the strait not just as a shipping channel but as a key geopolitical lever for Iran.

Amid ongoing negotiations that have shifted from Muscat to Geneva, tensions remain high, with both American and Israeli threats of significant military action. In this context, the Strait of Hormuz emerges as Iran's strongest bargaining chip. The article explains that in light of American and Israeli military threats, Iran could resort to leveraging its control over this strait—potentially disrupting global oil supplies as its last option if diplomatic efforts fail.

This situation highlights a precarious balance of power in the region, where the strait serves as a crucial pathway for the transport of around 20 million barrels of oil daily. The implications of disruption in this channel could be felt globally, not just in terms of oil supply but also in escalating military tensions in an already volatile area. The article ultimately frames the Strait of Hormuz as not just a geographical feature but as an essential tool of Iranian strategy in international diplomacy and military posturing against perceived threats.