Iran’s parliament has voted to close the Strait of Hormuz, the vital shipping channel through which around 20% of the world’s daily oil flows.
The move, which could block $1 billion in oil shipments per day, is likely to send oil prices soaring.
It will come into effect pending a final decision by Iran’s Supreme Council.
The Supreme Council’s decision must be made by tonight, according to Iran’s state-run Press TV.
Iran’s major escalation in response to US strikes on its nuclear facilities “will be done whenever necessary,” Email Kosari, Commander in the Revolutionary Guards, said on Sunday.
The strait connects the Gulf of Oman with the Persian Gulf.
It is bordered by Iran to the north and Oman and the United Arab Emirates to the south.