US Strikes Iran Third Time as Tehran Closes Hormuz: Global Energy Markets Shaken

US naval forces’ third strike on Iran this week has pushed Tehran to declare the closure of the Strait of Hormuz until further notice, escalating geopolitical tensions and disrupting global energy supply chains. The move triggered a 5% surge in Iranian oil prices and heightened volatility in energy stocks on Borsa Istanbul.

Hormuz Strait Shutdown and Energy Supply Chain

■Daily flow of 20 million barrels of oil through Hormuz now faces immediate risk, threatening Gulf-based energy exports.

■Energy-dependent economies like China, Japan, and South Korea may face increased shipping costs amid alternative route transitions.

■Europe’s 40% share of LNG via Hormuz has prompted a surge in strategic reserve demand amid heightened security concerns.

Oil Price Surge and Market Jitters

■Brent crude breached $85 per barrel, while WTI saw a 7% spike, reigniting concerns over energy inflation.

■Energy giants like Exxon Mobil and BP showed muted activity in futures markets, signaling cautious risk management.

■OPEC+ members issued mixed statements, underscoring growing uncertainty over supply stability.

European Markets and Currency Risks

■Eurozone energy cost hikes could delay the ECB’s inflation target timeline, complicating monetary policy.

■Euro slipped to $1.05 against the dollar, reflecting investor flight to safety amid geopolitical uncertainty.

■EU Commission entered review phase for new sanctions related to escalating trade wars and regional conflicts.

Market sentiment remains fragile as Hormuz tensions underscore energy supply chain vulnerabilities, pressuring Europe’s energy independence roadmap and forcing global energy firms to reassess logistics frameworks. The ECB’s interest rate trajectory now faces even greater complexity amid these dynamics.