(Zero Hedge)—Shell Plc is preparing contingency plans in case the conflict between Israel and Iran broadens and disrupts oil and gas flows through the critical maritime chokepoint of the Strait of Hormuz.
On Thursday, CEO Wael Sawan told Bloomberg’s Shery Ahn at the Japan Energy Summit & Exhibition in Tokyo, “If that artery is blocked, for whatever reason, it has a huge impact on global trade,” adding, “We have plans in the eventuality that things deteriorate.”
Shell CEO Wael Sawan tells me about contingency plans in case the Israel-Iran conflict disrupts supplies. https://t.co/AqQXOwbH56#MiddleEastCrisis #energy @Shell pic.twitter.com/3XBHOCoNw0
— Shery Ahn (@SheryAhnNews) June 19, 2025
Although energy flows through the critical waterway—responsible for approximately 20% of global oil trade—remain uninterrupted (at the moment), traders have been on high alert all this week amid widespread GPS jamming in the region, which has degraded navigational awareness and may have contributed to what is shaping up to be a major ecological disaster.
- Chokepoint Watch: GPS Jamming Impacts Tankers Across Strait Of Hormuz
- First View: Oil Tanker Erupts In Flames After Collision Near Strait Of Hormuz
- Strait Of Hormuz Tanker Collision Caused 10 Square-Kilometer Oil Spill
On Wednesday, former Iranian Economy Minister Ehsan Khandouzi stated on X and warned…
“Starting tomorrow, for 100 days, no oil tankers or LNG cargoes will be able to pass through the strait without Iran’s approval,” Khandouzi said.
He stated, “This policy is decisive if it is implemented in a timely manner. Any delay in its implementation means enduring more war inside the country. Trump’s battle must be ended with a combination of economy and security.”
Such messaging, especially when paired with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) naval activity in the region, raises the increasing probability of IRGC actions targeting commercial shipping lanes in the strait. This escalation could serve as the catalyst that turns JPMorgan’s $120–$130 per barrel Brent crude forecast from a scenario into a market reality.
Back to Shell’s CEO—he told Bloomberg’s Shery Ahn, “What is particularly challenging right now is some of the jamming that’s happening,” adding that “Shell is being very careful” along major maritime routes in the region.
The most imminent threat of a Strait of Hormuz blockade could come as soon as this weekend. Bloomberg reported overnight:
Senior US officials are preparing for the possibility of a strike on Iran in coming days, according to people familiar with the matter, as Israel and the Islamic Republic continue to exchange fire.
Some of them pointed to potential plans for a weekend strike. Top leaders at a handful of federal agencies have begun getting ready for an attack, one person said.
Commenting on the dire situation, Manish Bhargava, CEO of Singapore-based Straits Investment, warned, “Direct US involvement in an attack on Iran would almost certainly trigger a major spike in oil prices.” He said, “This surge would aggravate global inflation, making central bank efforts — like the Fed’s — to control it more difficult and potentially delaying interest rate cuts.”
Three Reasons a Coffee Gift Set From This Christian Company Is Perfect for Christmas
When you’re searching for a Christmas gift that’s meaningful, useful, and rooted in faith, you don’t want to settle for anything generic. This season is filled with noise — mass-produced products, last-minute picks, and trends that fade as quickly as they appear. But one gift stands apart because it blends genuine quality with a message that matters: a coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee.
This small Christian-owned company has become a favorite among believers who want to support faith-driven businesses while giving friends and family something they’ll actually enjoy. Here are three reasons a Promised Grounds Coffee gift set may be the most thoughtful and impactful present you give this year.
1. It’s Truly Delicious Coffee
Too many “gift-worthy” coffees look beautiful in the package but disappoint when the cup is poured. Promised Grounds takes the opposite approach — exceptional taste first, thoughtful presentation second.
Their beans are sourced with care, roasted in small batches, and crafted to bring out a rich, smooth flavor profile that appeals to both casual drinkers and true coffee lovers. Whether someone enjoys bold, dark roasts or lighter, more delicate blends, every sip reflects quality that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the biggest specialty brands.
Simply put: this coffee is good. Really good. Some say it’s absolutely fantastic. If you want a gift that won’t be re-gifted, ignored, or shoved in a cabinet, this is it.
2. It Spreads the Word While Serving a Real Purpose
There are many Christian gifts that are meaningful… but not exactly practical. There are also useful gifts that have nothing to do with faith. Promised Grounds Coffee bridges both worlds beautifully.
Each gift set delivers an encouraging, faith-centered message through its packaging and presentation — a simple but powerful reminder of God’s goodness during the Christmas season. The cups are especially popular and serve as a daily reminder of the blessings from our Lord. At the same time, the product itself is something people will actually use and appreciate every single day.
It’s a gift that uplifts the spirit and fills the mug. A gift that points loved ones toward Scripture while still being part of the normal rhythm of life. And in a culture that increasingly pushes faith to the margins, giving a gift that quietly but confidently honors Christ can make a deeper impact than you might expect.
3. It’s Affordable, Valuable, and Elegantly Presented
Many people want to give something meaningful without breaking their Christmas budget. Promised Grounds Coffee strikes that perfect balance — the sets look and feel premium, but the price remains accessible.
The packaging is classy, clean, and gift-ready, making it ideal for:
- Family members of all ages
- Co-workers or employees
- Church friends or small-group leaders
- Hosts, neighbors, and last-minute gift needs
It’s the kind of gift that feels more expensive than it is — and more thoughtful than most of what you’ll find on store shelves.
The Perfect Blend of Faith, Flavor, and Christmas Cheer
A coffee gift set from Promised Grounds Coffee checks every box: a gift that tastes amazing, conveys your faith, supports a Christian business, and brings daily enjoyment to the person who receives it. In a season when so many gifts are forgotten, this one stands out for all the right reasons.
If you want a Christmas present that reflects your values and delivers genuine joy, Promised Grounds Coffee is the perfect place to start.