Iranian Lawmaker: Strait of Hormuz “More Valuable Than a Nuclear Bomb”

An Iranian lawmaker said the Strait of Hormuz is “more valuable than a nuclear bomb,” arguing the waterway’s strategic importance gives Iran leverage over regional shipping. The comment underscores how Iranian officials continue to frame maritime chokepoints as critical to their bargaining power amid tensions in the Middle East. Iran has repeatedly threatened to disrupt passage through the strait in response to actions by rivals, while other countries warn that any disruption would be costly for global trade and could provoke broader escalation.