Why in news
- Maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz showed fluctuations amid diplomatic talks between Oman and Iran.
What is the Strait of Hormuz?
- Narrow maritime passage connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
- Bordered by Iran to the north and Oman (Musandam peninsula) and UAE to the south.
Why it matters
- World's most critical oil transit chokepoint, handling approximately one-fifth of global petroleum liquids consumption.
- Vital energy security channel for crude imports to major Asian economies including India.
Key terms
Maritime Chokepoint
Narrow strategic passage along high-traffic maritime routes that can constrain global trade flows if blocked.
Prelims facts
- Strait of Hormuz separates Iran from Oman and the United Arab Emirates.
- It connects the Persian Gulf directly with the Gulf of Oman.
Source: Hindu Business Line Economy