Approximately what percentage of oil exported from the Fifth Fleet's area of responsibility transits through the Strait of Hormuz?

• A. 60%
• B. 75%
• C. 90%
• D. 50%

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is the chokepoint nature of the Strait of Hormuz for Gulf oil exports. The Persian Gulf produces the bulk of the world’s oil, and almost all of that crude that is destined for overseas markets must pass through Hormuz to reach the open sea. Because the Strait is the only sea exit from the Gulf, roughly the vast majority of exports—about 90 percent in this context—transit Hormuz. That’s why this option is the best fit. The smaller percentages would understate how essential Hormuz is for Gulf oil shipments, and while some oil may move by pipelines or regional routes, they account for only a tiny share of Gulf exports compared to the tanker traffic through Hormuz.