Fresh US intelligence assessments have raised concerns about Iran's ability to disrupt global trade by shutting down the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz again following the recent conflict in the Middle East.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world's most important shipping chokepoints, with a significant portion of global oil and gas exports passing through the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman.
US intelligence officials believe Iran has demonstrated it can effectively close access to the waterway 'at will,' giving Tehran powerful leverage over the global economy and energy markets going forward.
Iran's actions during the recent conflict convinced US intelligence officials that Tehran is now more willing, and more capable, of using the strait as a strategic weapon during future confrontations.
US officials reportedly believe Iran may now be more likely to attempt similar actions in the future because it managed to disrupt maritime traffic and target Gulf energy infrastructure without exhausting major military resources.
