World on Edge - Joe Blogs

[TexasTowelie]

The world is on edge.

In this video, we take a closer look at the latest escalation in the Middle East as the United States begins enforcing a blockade targeting Iranian-linked shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the most important oil routes on the planet.

Around 20% of global oil supply passes through this narrow stretch of water every day, so any disruption has serious consequences for energy prices, inflation, and the global economy.

We break down exactly how this blockade is working in practice, what the US Navy is doing on the ground, and why enforcement appears to be selective rather than a full shutdown.

We also look at the early signs, including reports of tankers still passing through the Strait, and what that means for the effectiveness of this strategy.

Most importantly, we discuss the potential economic impact — from oil prices and supply chains to the wider risks for markets and global growth — and whether this move could increase pressure on Iran or lead to further escalation.

Markets may appear calm for now, but the risks are building.

This is a fast-moving situation with major implications for the global economy, and we’ll continue to monitor developments as they unfold.

[Warpy]

1. The problem is that Iran wants it both ways

They want all the legal protection of international waters and they want to declare the entire Strait their own territorial waters. Nope, doesn't work that way.

The blockade, such as it is, only affects about half a dozen ships per day,

In addition, 2 US Navy warships have transited through the Strait and back, meaning that Iran's defenses aren't quite as robust as previously reported and likely capable of menacing only soft targets like the big, slow tankers. That's good news, meaning a strategy to protect shipping is likely in the works.

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/2-us-navy-destroyers-transit-strait-of-hormuz-centcom-says/ar-AA20J31c