Bandar Abbas at US-Iran conflict: Why this city is important for both sides

As the conflict involving Iran intensifies, the focus of the renewed US military campaign has shifted to the country's southern coast, particularly the strategic port city of Bandar Abbas. Washington's objective is to weaken Iran's ability to threaten shipping through the Strait of Hormuz with missiles, drones and fast attack boats.The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. Before the conflict, nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas supplies passed through these waters. Any disruption has immediate consequences for energy markets and international trade.Bandar Abbas, located on Iran's southern coast along the Persian Gulf, sits near the northern entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, which narrows to just 31-39 kilometres at its tightest point.