Al Jazeera analysis suggests Iran's control over Hormuz Strait is a potent but time-limited weapon, with vessel traffic down 96% in early August

A recent analysis by Al Jazeera highlights that Iran has leveraged its ability to restrict commercial passage through the Strait of Hormuz as a significant economic weapon. IMF PortWatch data indicates that in the seven days ending August 2, an average of only about four ships per day passed through the strait, a 96% drop compared to approximately 90 ships during the corresponding week of 2025. Estimated transit volume also fell by about 96%. The analysis notes that while this disruption impacts global energy, fertilizer, and helium supply chains, prolonged interruptions would also harm Iran's own economy and incentivize the development of alternative routes by other Gulf states.