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Through a narrow strait of just 33 km, 20% of the world’s oil passes — the USA has just closed it, the barrel has risen to over $100, and the price at the pump in Brazil has already increased.

Written by Douglas Avila
Published on 16/04/2026 at 11:17
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US Naval Blockade in the Strait of Hormuz on April 13, 2026, Causes Brent Oil to Exceed $100, Gasoline Rises to R$6.77 and Diesel to R$7.43 in Brazil — Iran Threatens to Retaliate Against Gulf Ports

The United States announced on April 13, 2026, a total blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. The decision came after the collapse of negotiations with Iran in Islamabad, Pakistan.

This strait, which is only 33 kilometers wide, accounts for about 20% of all the oil consumed in the world.

The impact was immediate. On Monday, April 13, the price of Brent oil rose by 6.5% and surpassed $100.

In Brazil, gasoline at the pump rose to R$6.77. Diesel reached R$7.43. These are the highest prices of the year.

March inflation had already recorded an increase of 0.88%. The Transport group led with a rise of 1.64%, with fuels increasing by 4.59%.

Oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz with warships in the background
The Strait of Hormuz is only 33 km wide and carries 20% of the world’s oil — Illustrative image

The Collapse of Negotiations in Islamabad

The negotiations between the US and Iran took place in Islamabad, Pakistan, on April 11, 2026. Vice President J.D. Vance led the American delegation.

The US demanded freedom of navigation in the strait and included the dismantling of the Iranian nuclear program in the package.

Iran refused. The negotiations collapsed. On April 12, Trump announced that the Navy would initiate a total blockade.

Iran responded by threatening direct retaliation against ports in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman.

Tehran declared that port security would be “for all or for none”. And promised to permanently control the strait.

The Numbers of Impact

  • Brent Oil: up 6.5%, surpassed $100/barrel
  • Gasoline in Brazil: R$6.77 at the pump
  • Diesel in Brazil: R$7.43 at the pump
  • March Inflation: 0.88%, above expectations
  • Transport: +1.64% (the group that rose the most)
  • Fuels: +4.59% just in March
  • Brent Projection 2026: revised from $75-85 to $85-95

Before the conflict, Brent was projected between $75 and $85 throughout 2026. Now, revisions point to $85 to $95.

With more expensive oil, refineries pass on costs. The impact reaches the pump in weeks.

Gas station panel in Brazil showing high prices
Gasoline at R$ 6.77 and diesel at R$ 7.43 — the highest values of the year in Brazil — Illustrative image

What changes for Brazil

Despite being self-sufficient in oil, Brazil is not insulated. Domestic prices follow international quotes.

There is no projection of fuel shortages in the country. But price increases are inevitable.

The Strait of Hormuz is not just a route for oil. It also carries plastics, automobiles, fertilizers, electronics, and chemicals.

The blockade affects global supply chains. Imported products in Brazil may also become more expensive.

On the Friday before the blockade, diesel at the pump had fallen for the first time since the beginning of the conflict. The truce lasted little.

Those who follow the sector know that oil is the heart of the global energy economy. Any turbulence in Hormuz reverberates around the world.

Ceasefire is a temporary relief, according to analysts

Analysts describe a potential ceasefire as “temporary relief amid uncertainties”. Structural tensions remain.

Experts warn of the need for alternatives to dependence on the Persian Gulf for global energy supply.

The conflict is already pressuring the energy transition. Countries are seeking to accelerate investments in renewable and nuclear sources.

Map of the Strait of Hormuz showing strategic position between Iran and Gulf countries
The Strait of Hormuz separates Iran from Gulf countries and is the most important route for global oil trade — Illustrative image

Volatile scenario and uncertain projections

It is important to emphasize that price projections can change rapidly. A diplomatic agreement could drop the barrel price in hours.

The situation is extremely volatile. Statements from both sides change the scenario daily.

Gasoline and diesel prices in Brazil depend on the pricing policy of Petrobras, which can absorb part of the increase.

Information compiled from reports by CNN Brasil, Economic News Brasil, and Fecombustíveis. Data reflects the scenario as of April 15, 2026, and may change rapidly.

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Douglas Avila

I've been working with technology for over 13 years with a single goal: helping companies grow by using the right technology. I write about artificial intelligence and innovation applied to the energy sector — translating complex technology into practical decisions for those in the middle of the business.

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