The world’s major straits and maritime chokepoints, such as the Strait of Hormuz, the Malacca Strait, and the Bosporus, serve as critical passageways for international shipping. These straits are crucial for the movement of essential commodities like oil, gas, and bulk goods, as well as for the global container shipping industry. The Strait of Hormuz, for example, handles around 20% of the world’s petroleum trade, making it one of the most strategic waterways in the world. The control and security of these passageways are of paramount importance, as any disruption can lead to significant delays in global trade and fluctuations in commodity prices. Their importance to global shipping makes these straits vital corridors for maintaining the stability of international trade.
