The United Kingdom has voiced serious concerns over growing tensions in the Middle East, warning that any move by Iran to block the strategic Strait of Hormuz could spark a fresh energy crisis in Europe.
In a statement released on Saturday, a spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office said, “We are deeply worried about the escalating rhetoric from Tehran regarding the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Such an action would be deeply destabilizing and could send oil prices skyrocketing across the continent.”
The Strait of Hormuz — a narrow passage connecting the Persian Gulf to global oil markets — handles nearly a fifth of the world’s oil shipments daily. Any disruption to the flow of crude through this critical chokepoint would have immediate and severe consequences for fuel-dependent economies, especially in Europe, already grappling with inflation and supply chain shocks.
Energy analysts warn that crude prices could soar beyond $150 per barrel if Iran follows through with its threat, pushing transportation, heating, and manufacturing costs to record highs.
The UK government has reportedly begun high-level talks with European allies and Gulf partners to develop contingency plans. Royal Navy assets operating in the Gulf region are also said to be on heightened alert.
This latest development follows weeks of rising hostilities in the region, with Iran accusing Western powers of backing covert operations within its borders. Tehran has repeatedly threatened to leverage control of the Strait in response to increased sanctions and regional military build-ups.
“We call on Iran to act responsibly and in accordance with international law,” the UK statement concluded. “Global energy security must not be used as a weapon of geopolitical pressure.”
As the situation unfolds, markets and governments across Europe brace for potential oil shocks and a new wave of economic turbulence.
Source:@Megaton_ron
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