Global Energy Rationing Intensifies as Iran’s Closure of Strait of Hormuz Disrupts 20% of Oil Supply

Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz triggers a global oil crisis. From flight cancellations to fuel rationing, see how nations are responding to the shortage.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 9:10 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from TIME

Strategic Chokepoint Closure Paralyses Global Energy Flows

The effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iranian forces has evolved into the most significant disruption to global energy supplies since the 1970s. Following a large-scale military offensive by the United States and Israel on February 28, Iran leveraged its control over the waterway, through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil and a significant portion of liquefied natural gas (LNG) transits. This blockade has not only removed millions of barrels from the daily market but has also targeted oil-producing Gulf states that host American military infrastructure. According to the International Energy Agency, the current situation represents the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market, leaving tankers stranded and forcing major energy producers like Qatar and Kuwait to declare force majeure on their contracts.

Escalating Diplomatic Tensions and Infrastructure Threats

The geopolitical standoff has reached a critical juncture following a series of explicit threats from U.S. President Donald Trump. In a profane social media communication issued on Easter Sunday, the President warned Tehran that failure to reopen the strait by Tuesday evening would result in the systematic destruction of Iran’s civilian infrastructure, specifically targeting power plants and bridges. This escalation follows the confirmed downing of American aircraft and the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader during the initial weeks of the conflict. While the White House suggests the strait may "naturally" reopen following the war's conclusion, the immediate threat of a "Power Plant Day" has heightened international fears of a wider regional conflagration that could permanently damage global energy architecture.

Aviation Sector Grapples with Doubled Fuel Costs

The impact on the aviation industry has been immediate and severe, with jet fuel prices averaging $195 a barrel, more than double the previous year's average. In Europe, major hubs in Italy and the United Kingdom have already implemented refueling restrictions, leading to preemptive flight cancellations by carriers such as Ryanair and Air New Zealand. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby noted in a company memo that the carrier is "tactically pruning" unprofitable routes as operational costs surge. The United Kingdom appears particularly vul...