-Friday World – 21 February 2026
Recent Development: In February 2026, Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted military drills named "Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz," temporarily closing sections of the strait for several hours. The official Iranian statement described it as a measure for "security precautions and shipping safety." However, experts view this as a clear and direct message to Washington – in response to U.S. threats and military buildup, Iran holds a powerful card of its own!
Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz: This narrow waterway connects the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. Every day, 18–20 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products pass through it – accounting for about 20% of global oil trade! Major oil exporters like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar depend entirely on this chokepoint. Even a single day of closure would trigger an earthquake in global oil prices!
Iran's Warning and Capabilities: Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has clearly stated that American warships are dangerous, but Iran possesses weapons capable of sinking them. During the drills, the IRGC demonstrated live-fire exercises, missile tests, swarm boats, and drones. The strait serves as a natural checkmate for Iran's coastal missiles and fast-attack craft – the U.S. has no easy way to reopen it without major escalation.
U.S. Military Posturing and Trump's Ultimatum: The United States has deployed massive carrier strike groups, including the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln. President Trump issued a 10–15 day ultimatum: "Make a deal or really bad things will happen!" In response, Iran has turned the Strait of Hormuz into its ultimate "Trump Card." Joint naval drills with Russia and China are also underway, further challenging the global power balance.
Global Impact and Risks: If the strait is fully closed, oil prices could surge to $150–200 per barrel. Countries like India (which imports 85% of its crude via this route), China, Japan, and South Korea would face the hardest hit. Inflation would skyrocket, industrial production would grind to a halt, and the global economy would suffer a severe shock. Qatar's liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, vital for power and industry worldwide, would also be disrupted.
Iran's Message Is Crystal Clear: America repeatedly issues threats, but Iran has power too. Closing the strait is Iran's final defensive weapon for self-preservation. If the U.S. pushes further, the consequences will be severe – and the entire world will pay the price!
This situation is one of the most critical moments in global politics. Hopes rest on diplomacy, but military preparations and Iran's firm warnings indicate the risk of war is dangerously high. The Strait of Hormuz is not just a waterway – it is the lifeline of global energy, and Iran is holding it firmly to force America to back down!
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World – 21 February 2026
