Analysis: Blockade economic impact, pipeline alternatives, escalation risks

Analysis of the economic and military implications of a US naval blockade of Iran. Gulf countries face millions in lost export revenue. Alternative pipelines (East-West and Abu Dhabi Crude Oil Pipeline) have combined capacity of 9 million bpd, far below the 20 million bpd through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran would likely attack these pipelines, triggering intensified US military response and potential expansion to control the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which would face attacks from Yemen's Ansarallah.