Attack in the Strait of Hormuz: who is behind it?
A cargo ship was attacked by small boats near the Strait of Hormuz, that sea route through which almost a fifth of the world’s oil and gas passes. British authorities confirmed the incident, but so far no one has claimed responsibility for the attack. The crew are safe, according to the UK Maritime Trade Operations centre.
This is not an isolated case. Since the conflict between Iran and the United States began, the area has become a tinderbox. Iran has already warned that it will only allow ships not linked to the US or Israel to pass, and that on top of that you have to pay a toll. It’s as if they put a checkpoint in the middle of the global crude oil highway.
Meanwhile, in Tehran they are evaluating Washington’s response to a proposal to end the war. But be careful: they said that for now they are not touching on the nuclear issue, although that has been the toughest nut to crack between both countries. The Iranian economy suffers: the currency is devalued and people have a hard time.
What worries me is how this affects real families, not just markets. The uncertainty in Hormuz is already shaking global fuel prices. And while the diplomats talk, the ships continue to navigate increasingly dangerous waters.
