# Iran faces Strait of Hormuz paradox as strategic value of chokehold erodes

https://mins.news/en/item/32598

- The Guardian, 2026-08-26 04:00 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/aug/26/iran-faces-strait-of-hormuz-paradox-as-strategic-value-of-chokehold-erodes

> As Gulf neighbours plan alternative pipelines and export routes, debate is intensifying in Iran over whether the Strait of Hormuz is becoming a rapidly diminishing strategic asset. President Masoud Pezeshkian and parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf have urged an end to the war, while analysts warn that repeatedly using the strait as leverage could push others to reduce their dependence on it and leave Iran more exposed to US sanctions.

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