Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Wednesday they control the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for oil and gas, escalating global energy security fears amidst massive US-led strikes.

The US military reported hitting nearly 2,000 targets in Iran, contrasting sharply with Tehran's claims of maritime dominance in the strategic chokepoint.

The escalating conflict between US/Israeli forces and Iran is reshaping global geopolitics and threatening the lifeblood of the global economy: oil.

The Strait of Hormuz Standoff

“Currently, the Strait of Hormuz is under the complete control of the Islamic Republic’s Navy,” said Guards Navy official Mohammad Akbarzadeh. This claim was immediately contradicted by US Admiral Brad Cooper.

Cooper asserted that the US had already destroyed 17 Iranian ships and that not a single Iranian ship was underway in the vital maritime corridors.

The US Navy's potential escort of oil tankers through the strait marks an aggressive step to contain soaring energy prices, a move closely watched by net-oil importing nations like Kenya.

East African Energy Security

For Kenya, the control of the Strait of Hormuz is not a distant conflict but a direct economic threat. Disruption in this waterway can cause an immediate spike in crude prices, translating to higher pump prices in Nairobi.

• Over 20% of global oil consumption passes through the Strait of Hormuz.
• Kenya relies heavily on imported refined petroleum products.
• Rising fuel costs threaten to erode recent economic gains in East Africa.

While the US and Israel conduct their joint war against Iran, differences in ultimate objectives—such as regime change—are beginning to emerge.

Conclusion

"The battle for the Strait of Hormuz is a battle for global economic stability, and East Africa remains highly vulnerable to the fallout."