US blockade of Iran would worsen global energy crisis, analysts say

Al Jazeera Economic ImpactNews ReportEN 4 min read 100% complete by Erin HaleApril 13, 2026 at 11:52 AM

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In April 2026, analysts warned that a planned US naval blockade of Iran, announced by President Trump, would worsen the global energy crisis. While Central Command stated the blockade would only affect ships entering and exiting Iranian ports, experts believe it could still cripple international shipping. The blockade, intended to prevent Iran from profiting from "illegal extortion," could drive oil prices above $150 a barrel if it provokes retaliation, such as the Houthis shutting down the Bab al-Mandeb strait. This action marks a policy reversal, as the US had recently waived some Iranian oil export sanctions to ease the energy crunch. Since the start of the US-Israeli war in February, Iran has already restricted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, causing thousands of vessels to become stranded.

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Key Claims (5)

AI-Extracted

The blockade would affect only ships entering and exiting Iranian ports.

factual — Central Command100% confidence

The US Navy would blockade the Strait of Hormuz and interdict every vessel that has paid a toll to Iran.

quote — Donald Trump100% confidence

US President Donald Trump plans a naval blockade of Iran.

factual — Al Jazeera100% confidence

Iran has essentially closed the strait since the start of the US-Israeli war on February 28.

factual — Al Jazeera90% confidence

Oil could rise above $150 a barrel if the blockade triggers retaliation from the Houthis.

prediction — Trita Parsi70% confidence

Claims are automatically extracted and should be independently verified. Attribution indicates the stated source of the claim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Israel 35% Yemen 40% Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft 50% Central Command 50% Bab al-Mandeb 55% Trita Parsi ×260% Houthis 65% US Navy 70% Strait of Hormuz ×285% United States ×490% Donald Trump ×390% Iran ×795%

Keywords

us blockade 90% energy crisis 80% iran 80% oil prices 70% strait of hormuz 70% international shipping 60% global economy 60% oil exports 50% us navy 50% middle east 40%