When you think about global energy trade, you might picture oil rigs in the Middle East, pipelines across continents, or massive tankers sailing the seas. But there’s one narrow waterway that plays a disproportionately huge role in keeping the world running: the Strait of Hormuz.

This slender passage of water is just 34 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, yet it carries nearly 20% of the world’s oil and about one-third of its liquefied natural gas (LNG). In many ways, it is the jugular vein of the global economy.

For countries like India, which relies heavily on imported energy, the Strait of Hormuz is not just a distant geographic feature—it’s a lifeline that directly affects petrol prices, electricity bills, airline tickets, and even the cost of groceries.

So, why is this strait so important? What risks are associated with its closure? And how do different powers—India, the U.S., and China—view its future? Let’s dive deep into one of the most strategic waterways in the world.