Conflicts Occurring Due to the Strait of Hormuz being blocked off

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow channel of water, located between the Omani Musandam Peninsula and Iran. The channel is deep enough for massive tankers to navigate through so that the surrounding nations are able to export resources that they might not be able to provide for themselves. According to a report from Congress, “Starting on March 4, 2026 Iranian forces had officially declared the Strait of Hormuz closed” (Iran Conflict and the Strait of Hormuz: Impacts on Oil, Gas, and Other Commodities).

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical checkpoint for the transport of most oils and gases. In February and March, the gas prices in the United States remained relatively stable compared to other countries like Asia and Europe. During the week of February 27th to March 2nd, the prices of gas in Asia and Europe went up by 54% to 63%, while in the U.S the prices have only gone up about 7%.

Even though our gas prices have gone up the prices that people pay are crazy I've asked a couple of students about their gas prices and how much they cost

• Alia Saad, a student, noted, “gas costs me $30 for a full tank when I used to pay $15.”

• Amelia Brickley added “gas costs me $45 for a full tank.”

As prices continue to climb, international tension is mounting. Speculation surfaced regarding China providing Iran with military hardware during the current two week ceasefire between Iran and the United States. While Chinese officials denied allegations of weapons shipments and air defense systems (Mordowanec), US intelligence suggests otherwise. According to three sources cited by CNN, China has begun preparations to deliver new air defense systems to Iran in the coming weeks (Mordowanec).

These developments raise a daunting question: Are we going to have a new world war if China gets involved with Iran? And what is going to happen to the cease fire? For now, the future of the cease-fire remains uncertain. Answers may only come with time as the world waits for further statements from the government and President Donald. J. Trump.

As of April 17th, 2026, the New York Times has reported that Tehran declared the Strait of Hormuz is "Completely open" following a truce in Lebanon. However, President Trump maintained that the U.S. blockade will continue. While some oil prices dropped following the news, Iranian ships are now required to follow a new coordinated route that runs extremely close to the Iranian coast.

Iran Conflict and the Strait of Hormuz: Impacts on Oil, Gas, and Other Commodities Iran Conflict and the Strait of Hormuz: Impacts on Oil, Gas, and Other Commodities | Congress.gov

Strauss Center for International Security and Law Strait of Hormuz - Geography - The Strauss Center

Nick Mordowanec - How China's Military Weapons Aid of Iran May Cause Larger Geopolitical Rift

The New York Times - Iran Declares Strait of Hormuz ‘Open’ After Lebanon Deal, but Trump Says U.S. Blockade Continues: Live Updates - The New York Times