Gulf States Accept Iran’s Control Over Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions
Gulf energy-exporting countries have come to a grim conclusion that Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz is inevitable, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal. Rival Gulf states are unhappy with a developing agreement that would grant Tehran official oversight of incoming ships through the strategic waterway. However, regional sources view this arrangement as a "necessary evil" preferable to another military escalation between the US and Iran, which could directly threaten vital energy infrastructure. Experts believe any future deal with Iran will leave its missile program and support for regional militias intact. The primary concern for Gulf states is that ongoing conflict will deter foreign investment and tourism, severely damaging their economies.
Negotiations to renew energy shipments through the strait have stalled recently, with Tehran demanding financial relief and a complete ban on US and Israeli warships passing through. Washington refuses to approve any deal that would allow Iran to restrict freedom of navigation. This deadlock has caused Brent crude oil prices to surge to around $90 per barrel. Data from Kpler shows crude oil exports via the Strait of Hormuz dropped sharply to about 2.2 million barrels per day last week, down from 8.5 million barrels the previous month and 20 million barrels before the conflict began. Despite lower oil prices compared to spring highs due to restrained demand in China, Japan, and Europe, global oil inventories have shrunk by over 400 million barrels in six months, leaving the market vulnerable to new shocks.
Separately, a severe migration crisis in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta on the North African coast has escalated tensions between Spain and Israel. The British Telegraph reports that conspiracy theories blaming Israel and former US President Donald Trump for encouraging the migrant influx have fueled diplomatic friction. Israeli UN Ambassador Danny Danon criticized Spain for holding colonial territories in Africa while condemning Israel. Spanish officials hinted at coordinated campaigns behind the migration wave, deepening the rift between Israel and Europe. Spain has been a leading voice against Israel in Europe, including recognizing a Palestinian state and calling to suspend the EU-Israel partnership agreement worth about 45 billion euros annually.
Meanwhile, a British Times report highlights a mental health crisis in Iran amid ongoing war, sanctions, and government repression. Psychiatrists warn of unprecedented suicide rates and widespread trauma affecting all social classes. The shortage of psychiatric medications due to import disruptions exacerbates the situation. Many Iranians express despair over the regime’s survival despite hopes for its overthrow. Eyewitnesses recount public executions and harsh crackdowns, with some hoping continued conflict will eventually topple the Islamic Republic. The report underscores the deep psychological and economic toll on ordinary Iranians caught in the turmoil.
