Choke Points

Choke points refer to narrow, strategic passages or channels in maritime or land areas that have significant geopolitical or economic importance due to their potential to control or restrict the movement of goods, resources, or military vessels. These points often represent critical junctions in transportation routes, such as canals, straits, or narrow waterways, where the flow of trade, shipping, or military vessels can be easily regulated, monitored, or potentially disrupted. Examples include the Strait of Hormuz, the Panama Canal, and the Malacca Strait, which have immense importance in global trade and security due to their geographic and strategic significance.

Choke points in the Indian Ocean. (Credits: Carnegie Endowment for International Peace)