The Persian Gulf has been the site of military tensions largely because of its importance to global oil and gas shipping. Major energy exports from the region move by tanker through the gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, its only outlet to the open ocean. This strategic importance has contributed to conflicts such as the Tanker War during the Iran-Iraq War (1980β88), when attacks on oil tankers prompted international naval escorts. Tensions have continued in the 21st century, leading to clashes during the 2026 Iran War.
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