Why the Strait of Hormuz is so difficult to defend

"Iran sits along the Strait's northern coastline, giving it a geographic advantage to limit maritime traffic or to attack vessels. From shore, Iranian forces can deploy shore-based missiles or fast attack craft with little warning, while U.S. and allied forces are forced to operate from a greater distance."

"Iran has effectively closed the Strait for certain vessels, threatening retaliation if ships from some countries - including Israel and the United States - attempt to pass through. The halt in traffic has pushed oil prices into the triple digits for the first time since 2022."

"Reuters reported in late February that Iran was close to finalizing a deal with China to acquire anti-ship cruise missiles, which could pose an added threat to U.S. naval forces in the region."

Iran controls the northern coastline of the Strait of Hormuz, providing significant geographic advantage to threaten maritime passage. Rather than relying on conventional naval forces, Iran deploys shore-based missiles and fast attack craft with minimal warning capability. U.S. and allied forces operate at greater distances, limiting their response effectiveness. Iran has effectively restricted vessel passage from certain countries, including Israel and the United States, threatening retaliation against non-compliant ships. This disruption has driven oil prices above $100 per barrel for the first time since 2022. Additional Iranian attacks on commercial vessels could completely close the waterway, further escalating global oil prices and economic consequences.

Read at Axios