Why did the Persian Gulf region become especially important to the global economy after World War II?

The Persian Gulf region became a cornerstone of the global economy following World War II primarily due to the massive scale of its petroleum and natural gas reserves.12

While the area was historically significant for activities like fishing and pearling, the post-war era saw it emerge as a critical energy hub, accounting for a significant share of global oil production. The region currently holds nearly three-fifths of the world’s estimated proven oil reserves and about one-third of its proven natural gas reserves. This concentration of resources granted the region immense strategic importance to industrialized nations, which rely on the steady export of these energy supplies via tankers through the Strait of Hormuz.21

The economic stakes associated with these reserves have driven rapid industrial development in the region, including the growth of petrochemical and consumer industries. However, this same strategic value has also made the gulf a frequent site of geopolitical tension and conflict, as nations have vied for control over territorial limits and shipping routes.213