**Oil price rises: Is there a crisis in the Strait of Hormuz?**

**Oil price rises: Is there a crisis in the Strait of Hormuz?**

The conflict between Israel and Iran is increasing in intensity, leading to significantly rising oil prices. The Strait of Hormuz plays a crucial role in these geopolitical events as it transports a large proportion of the world's crude oil. Experts fear a potential economic catastrophe if Iran disrupts or even blocks shipping traffic in the Strait of Hormuz.

After Israel attacked Isfahan, experts around the world are speculating about possible consequences for the oil trade. One scenario envisages a drastic increase in transport costs due to the increased risk for shipping companies. Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz would have even more dire consequences as it would affect all trade in the Persian Gulf. Asia, which gets most of its oil needs from this region, would be particularly hard hit.

The likelihood of a closure of the Strait of Hormuz remains uncertain, as Iran itself relies on oil trade through this route. However, if the US and its allies impose tougher sanctions on Iran, it could use leverage to increase oil prices. Experts warn of a potential escalation that could push oil prices to over $100 a barrel.

Despite rising tensions in the Middle East, analysts say economic catastrophe remains unlikely unless the flow of oil from the Persian Gulf is disrupted in the long term. However, Yemen's Houthi militia and other regional actors could, through their actions, contribute to short-term price fluctuations in the oil market. There is hope that a sustained disruption in the flow of oil can be avoided to prevent a major global crisis.