Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Strait of Hormuz:
1.The strait forms the only natural sea passage connecting the resource-rich Persian Gulf to the open ocean.
2.It is bordered by two countries Iran to the north and the Sultanate of Oman to the south.
3.The strait’s deepest waters and designated commercial shipping channels are primarily located closer to the Iranian coastline rather than the Omani side.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
Answer: A
Notes:
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s only sea passage connecting the waters of the Persian Gulf to the open ocean and is considered one of the most vital strategic chokepoints in the world.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: While it is true that Iran borders the waterway to the north and Oman borders it to the south, the southern border is not solely made up of Oman. A portion of the southwestern peninsula near the strait is governed by the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
- Statement 3 is incorrect: According to the Strauss Center, the strait is deep and mostly clear of maritime hazards, but its greatest depths are located near the Musandam Peninsula (the Omani side). The depth tapers as the waters move north toward the Iranian shore, and commercial traffic generally routes through the Traffic Separation Scheme (TSS) lying north of the Omani coast.
