The Importance of the Strait of Hormuz in the Context of “Three Sea System”

Abstract

The Strait of Hormuz plays a prominent role in international marine transportation of hydrocarbon resourses. The present article touches upon the geopolitical and geo-economic importance and significance of the Strait in the light of “Three Sea System” and goes along the investigation of existing alternative routes to export hydrocarbon resources by bypassing the Strait of Hormuz. The study discusses also new possible alternative routes to the Strait.
The study argues that the Strait of Hormuz will continue to play vital role in the “Three Sea System” taking into account the insufficient capability of alternative routes to the Strait. The ongoing tension between United States and Iran makes the strait more volatile and vulnerable. The escalation of skirmishes in the Strait is foreseen.