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The United States' Iran conflict in 2026 shows the vulnerability of the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic route for global energy distribution. This research aims to analyze the attractive characteristics of the Strait of Hormuz as a strategic choke point, the strategies of the two countries, and its impact on maritime security. The research uses a descriptive qualitative approach with a literature study method through official institutional reports, policy documents and conflict-related reporting. This strategic choke point concept is analyzed through four aspects, namely geographic value, maritime pressure and security instruments, shipping disruptions, and their impact on maritime security and energy distribution. The research results show that threats and attacks on commercial ships are related to a decrease in shipping traffic from more than 100 ships per day before the conflict to around five ships per day on 15 July – 23 August 2026. In addition, the IMO recorded 80 attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz and the surrounding area and at least 22 seafarers died until 16 September 2026. These disruptions hamper energy distribution and increase supply chain uncertainty. The research concludes that the concentration of energy flows and limited alternative routes magnify the impact of strategic competition on maritime security.
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Mukmin et al. (2026) studied this question.
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