The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz is well established. With the strait still effectively closed today, Iran’s government aims to showcase the nation’s longstanding dominance over the vital waterway during its observance of Persian Gulf Day.
Held annually since 2004, the event commemorates Iran’s triumph over Portugal in 1622 when it removed Portuguese forces from the island of Hormuz.
This year’s festivities are more focused, as the strait has turned into an essential element of Tehran’s influence over the US amid the ongoing conflict, while President Donald Trump is considering a prolonged blockade of Iran’s harbors.
“The Persian Gulf will always be Persian, the homeland of the influential and history-shaping Iranian people,” stated Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, Iran’s judiciary chief, in one of several similar statements issued by the leadership in Tehran.
During the event, a flotilla of small Basij naval boats assembled just off the southern coast of Iran.
Although Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has emerged as its most effective response to the US, it has simultaneously impacted its own trade—an effect worsened by the US blockade.
This is having a catastrophic impact on Iran’s already troubled economy, afflicted by conflict with the US and Israel, along with years of severe sanctions.
Joblessness has skyrocketed, putting millions at risk of losing their jobs and entering poverty. Inflation has surged significantly – the yearly rate in March hit 72%, but was considerably higher for necessities, based on official statistics.
Iranian Oil Minister Mohsen Paknejad encouraged the public to reduce their usage yesterday, declaring “conservation and savings” a fundamental principle “and a religious obligation,” while also downplaying the effects of the US embargo.
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