Hormuz Opened: The Iran Deal Reframes Asia’s Energy Power
An interim US-Iran memorandum centers on stabilizing the Strait of Hormuz—the world’s energy artery that carried about 15 million barrels per day (roughly 34% of global seaborne crude) and a large LNG share in 2025—by enabling Iranian oil exports and backing a $300 billion private Reconstruction and Development Fund, reducing volatility and shipping costs for Asia’s energy needs. China’s 25-year Iran deal and Gulf investments signal a strategy to secure energy supplies and expand influence, suggesting the greatest long-term gains from the accord may accrue to Asia, which benefits most from a stable Hormuz even if a final peace settlement remains distant.