Spain's Sanchez warns Hormuz closure could spark global energy crisis

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez issued an urgent appeal Monday for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and protection of energy resources in the Middle East, warning that further escalation could trigger a long-term energy crisis with global ramifications. His statement came as tensions in the region continue to mount.

Call for restraint

"The Spanish government demands the opening of the Strait of Hormuz and the protection of all energy reserves in the Middle East," Sanchez said in a post on social media. "Further escalation could trigger a long-term energy crisis for all of humanity. The world should not have to bear the consequences of this war." His remarks underscore growing European concern about the economic fallout from the conflict.

Iran's position on shipping

Iran's Foreign Ministry has declared that vessels linked to Israel and the US will not be permitted to transit the Strait of Hormuz. However, it noted that ships belonging to countries not involved in the attacks against Iran may pass "in coordination with the relevant authorities." The ministry placed responsibility for any security risks on the US and Israel, emphasizing that ending military strikes is essential for achieving lasting security in the region.

Wider impact

The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively disrupted since early March, with approximately 20 million barrels of oil normally passing through daily. The closure has driven up shipping costs and pushed global oil prices higher, compounding economic pressures from the US-Israeli offensive against Iran that began Feb. 28. The conflict has killed more than 1,300 people, including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Iran retaliating through drone and missile strikes targeting US military assets across the region.