“I pray that your will be done concerning the rising tension between Iran and America, which could trigger a war capable of engulfing the world. You are the God of peace and concord—let there be peace in your waters and on this earth you created.“
Even above the waters, you are God—the God of the oceans, the rivers, the great lakes, and the “water gate” that is currently tossing the world into turmoil and fanning the embers of war—a potential Third World War.
My God and my Father, the Alpha and Omega, the Creator of the universe, I acknowledge before you this morning that all waters belong to you: the roaring Atlantic, the quiet Mediterranean, the restless Pacific, the rivers that cross continents, and the lakes that lie peacefully between mountains.
Among these creations, O Lord, are the straits—those narrow passages of water through which mighty ships pass carefully, almost as if squeezing through tight village paths.
Yet, among all the straits in the world, one stands out for its importance and tension: the Strait of Hormuz. It is a narrow, strategic and politically sensitive waterway that has become one of the most critical locations in the global economy.
Naturally, it raises a question that blends reverence with curiosity: why, O God, did you place so much global importance in such a small stretch of water?
At first glance, the Strait of Hormuz looks insignificant on the map—easy to miss. But in reality, it serves as a critical link between the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, opening into the Arabian Sea.
It is the main route through which oil produced in the Middle East reaches the rest of the world. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait and Iraq depend on it to export their energy resources.
Geographically, Iran sits on one side of the strait, while Oman lies on the other. Between them flows a corridor that carries a significant portion of the world’s oil supply. Every day, massive oil tankers move through this narrow channel, transporting millions of barrels of crude oil to Asia, Europe, America and beyond. Nearly one-fifth of global oil consumption passes through this single route.
This reality gives the strait enormous strategic importance. Despite its narrow width—about 33 kilometres—it functions as a major artery of the global economy. The entire world, in a sense, depends on the smooth flow of traffic through this passage.
Whenever there is tension in the Middle East, attention quickly shifts to the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices react immediately, stock markets become unstable, and governments begin to issue cautious statements.
The concern is simple: if the strait were ever blocked, the consequences for the global economy would be severe. That is why there is a constant military presence in the area. The United States Navy and its allies patrol the waters, monitor activities and ensure that the route remains open. Warships, surveillance systems and advanced technology are deployed to protect this narrow but vital corridor.
IRONY
There is a striking irony in this situation. The most advanced nations in the world, equipped with cutting-edge technology, still depend heavily on a natural passage formed thousands of years ago. It is a reminder that, despite human progress, nature continues to hold significant control over global affairs. A storm can disrupt air travel, an earthquake can halt cities, and a narrow waterway can influence the world economy.
History offers similar examples. The Suez Canal reshaped global trade routes, and the Panama Canal transformed maritime movement. In the same way, the Strait of Hormuz remains a key geographical feature that quietly influences global stability and economic activity.
NIGERIA’S GEOGRAPHICAL ADVANTAGE
Interestingly, Nigeria enjoys a different geographical advantage. Its oil exports move directly into the Atlantic Ocean without passing through a narrow or contested route. This means there is no comparable bottleneck affecting its shipments. It is a form of natural freedom that often goes unnoticed, especially when compared to the challenges faced by countries in the Gulf region.
For those Gulf nations, the Strait of Hormuz is both an asset and a risk. It provides access to global markets, yet it also exposes them to potential disruptions. As a result, the area remains under constant watch. Military forces stay alert, surveillance systems operate continuously, and diplomatic efforts are handled with care. Even tanker operators understand that they are navigating one of the most sensitive waterways in the world.
DEEPER LESSON
The deeper lesson is clear: power is not always found in size. Sometimes, it is concentrated in small, strategic points. Just as a tiny component can control a large machine, a narrow channel of water can influence the fortunes of nations.
This brings us back to the original question. Why would such immense global importance be placed in such a fragile and limited space? One possible answer lies in humility. It serves as a reminder that, despite all human advancement, the world still depends on delicate natural structures. Civilization itself often relies on narrow channels—both literal and metaphorical.
The Strait of Hormuz stands as a powerful example of this truth. Positioned between Iran and Oman, it continues to shape global economic and political realities. It reminds us that geography still plays a decisive role in world affairs.
And so, with respect and reflection, the question remains: why did you, O God, create the Strait of Hormuz? Perhaps the answer lies in the lesson it teaches—that even the smallest places can carry the greatest significance, and that within the structure of the natural world are enduring forces that continue to guide human destiny.
PRAYER FOR PEACE
I pray that your will be done concerning the rising tension between Iran and America, which could trigger a war capable of engulfing the world. You are the God of peace and concord—let there be peace in your waters and on this earth you created.
We do not want war—neither mechanical war nor economic war nor any war that tears us apart as children of one God, one Father.
So, O God, let this narrow gate not become a gateway to war. Let wisdom prevail over pride, restraint over provocation, and peace over profit. For if such a small stretch of water can sustain the world, it can also, if misused, unsettle it beyond repair.
And lastly, O God, we ask that you mend quarrels among world leaders—seen and unseen, spoken and unspoken. Touch the hearts of presidents and spiritual fathers alike. Where there is ego, bring humility. Where there is division, bring understanding.
We want peace. Let there be peace, O God of peace. Let peace flow across your waters and settle upon the earth. Amen and amen.
The views expressed by contributors are strictly personal and not of Law & Society Magazine.
