Tehran: Iran is contemplating shutting down the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz in reaction to recent Israeli military assaults, an Iranian lawmaker disclosed on Saturday. The potential closure of this vital maritime passage could have substantial impacts on global oil distribution.

According to Anadolu Agency, Iranian parliamentarian Esmaeil Kowsari, quoted by the state-run Press TV, revealed that Tehran is seriously considering this move. The Strait of Hormuz is a pivotal channel in the Persian Gulf, facilitating the transit of over 17 million barrels of oil daily, and its closure could severely disrupt international oil markets.

These deliberations follow a series of Israeli strikes on Iranian soil, targeting nuclear and missile installations on early Friday, which led to the deaths of senior military personnel and scientists. As reported by Iran's UN envoy, these attacks have resulted in at least 78 fatalities and left 320 people injured.

In a retaliatory act, Iran launched ballistic missiles at various sites within Israel, causing the deaths of at least three individuals and injuring over 170, as reported by media outlets.