On March 11, 2026, the world's most critical energy lifeline—the Strait of Hormuz—once again teeters on the brink of crisis. According to sources familiar with U.S. intelligence reports, the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has begun laying mines in the waterway. Although the scale of the mine-laying is currently limited, this move is interpreted as a key step by Tehran to impose a de facto blockade on the global energy artery amid the backdrop of joint U.S.-Israel military actions. In response, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning, demanding Iran immediately clear the mines or face "unprecedented military consequences."
The Strait of Hormuz accounts for about one-fifth of global oil exports by sea, and any sustained disruption would have profound impacts on global inflation, monetary policy, and risk asset pricing. This article will analyze the event itself, outlining the timeline and data structure, dissecting public opinion from all sides, and projecting various scenario evolutions, including impacts on the crypto market.

Germany Partially Releases National Oil Reserves
Germany will partially release its national oil reserves to curb sharp increases in energy prices stemming from the conflict with Iran. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has requested the release of a total of 400 million barrels of emergency reserve oil from its 32 member countries; this will be the largest collective operation in IEA history.
Economy Minister Katherina Reiche announced at a press conference in Berlin that Germany will contribute approximately 2.64 million tons (19.5 million barrels) of oil. Reiche stated, "Germany is not currently experiencing an oil shortage, but we are complying with this decision in accordance with the IEA's principle of solidarity." The release will begin within a few days.
Austria, Japan, Spain, and France have also taken similar steps. G7 energy ministers have supported the use of strategic reserves to counter price fluctuations. This move surpasses the record of 183 million barrels released during the Russia-Ukraine crisis in 2022.
The decision aims to reduce volatility in energy markets.
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