Orthodox Journalist Visits Hormuz Strait, Witnesses Tension and Tranquility

Orthodox journalist Yitzchak Horowitz recently visited Oman, using the opportunity to travel to the volatile Hormuz Strait, a key global flashpoint. In an interview with Ro'ee Kais on Kan News, Horowitz described his experience reaching the area as an Israeli, noting the surprising lack of difficulty. He offered a rare glimpse into life at the center of the US-Iran confrontation.

Horowitz described the stark contrast he observed, stating, "It's amazing because you arrive at a place the whole world has been revolving around in recent months." He noted the presence of "signs of war, with warships and stranded tankers," juxtaposed with "a lot of pastoral scenery, magnificent landscapes with dolphins swimming freely and amazing fjords."

Despite frequent reports of attacks on merchant ships, Horowitz explained that the international tension has not disrupted the daily lives of residents. While the local tourism industry has vanished, locals continue their routines, primarily earning a living from fishing and sheep herding. Beyond traditional agriculture, a significant portion of the population relies on an active smuggling route between Oman and Iran.

According to Horowitz, the short distance between the two countries, about an hour by boat, fosters a close connection. This link is evident in divided families, shared culture and food, and even a unique local dialect blending Arabic and Persian.