Iran Moves to Control the Strait of Hormuz Through Geopolitical Favoritism

Iran is now pledging to offer preferential treatment to allied nations passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the waterway through which one-fifth of global oil and gas travel. Officials promised China and sanctioned partners special shipping terms while restricting Western-aligned traders. The move transforms a critical chokepoint into a tool of diplomatic leverage, rewarding geopolitical alignment while penalizing the West.