TEHRAN — Iran is considering closing the strategic Strait of Hormuz in response to Israeli military strikes, a senior Iranian lawmaker said on Saturday.

Esmaeil Kowsari, a member of the Iranian parliament, told the state-run Press TV that Tehran is weighing the option of blocking the critical waterway, which is one of the world's most important oil transit routes.

“Iran is considering blocking the Hormuz Strait in the Persian Gulf, which sees more than 17 million barrels of oil pass through it every day,” Kowsari was quoted as saying.

The remarks come a day after Israel launched a wave of airstrikes across Iranian territory, targeting nuclear and missile infrastructure early Friday.

The attacks reportedly killed several senior military officials and scientists.

According to Iran’s envoy to the United Nations, at least 78 people were killed and 320 others injured in the Israeli strikes.

In retaliation, Iran launched ballistic missiles at targets in Israel, with media reports stating that at least three people were killed and over 170 injured.

The potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for global energy supplies — would represent a major escalation in the already volatile conflict between Iran and Israel. — Agencies