To the Point
Tensions Escalate as Iran Threatens to Close Strait of Hormuz
Iran is threatening to close one of the world's most important waterways, a main route for the global oil supply. The US is responding with warnings of its own.
By Sara Terry • • 50m ListenIran has been stepping up its threats to close one of the most important waterways in the world, the Straits of Hormuz, one of the main global routes for the world’s oil supply. The US is responding with warnings of its own. Guest host Sara Terry explores what's really going on. Is Iran trying to deflect attention from its nuclear program? How are new regional realities, brought on by the Arab Spring, affected by tensions over Iran? Also, candidates try to close the deal as caucuses near, and pass the popcorn. We kick back for a look at the year in movies and a preview of what's to come. (Thanks to KCRW volunteer Gideon Brower for special production assistance.)
Banner image: An Iranian Army soldier stands guard on a military speed boat, passing by a submarine during the 'Velayat-90' navy exercises in the Strait of Hormuz in southern Iran on December 28, 2011. Photo by Ali Mohammad/AFP/Getty Images
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With five days to go before the Iowa caucus , Mitt Romney is stepping up his efforts there, while Michele Bachmann struggles to recover from the loss of her top advisor in the state, who jumped ship to support Ron Paul.
Read the story8 minTensions Escalate as Iran Threatens to Close Strait of Hormuz
The US has warned Iran that it will not tolerate interference with the Strait of Hormuz. Only 34 miles wide, 40 percent of the world's tanker-borne oil passes through it. Closure of the strait would wreak havoc on global oil markets.
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