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Strait Closure Sparks Sulphur Shortage, Threatens Copper Supply

3/20/2026

23 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts the sulphur supply used to extract key minerals like copper and cobalt.
Prices for sulphur have surged nearly 25% since the war began.
The Modern War Institute warns that the sulphur shortage is evolving into a copper crisis.
Only 6% of US defense contractors have transparent supply chains.
The situation raises concerns about the US military's ability to replenish resources.

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Story summary

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts the sulphur supply used to extract key minerals like copper and cobalt.
Prices for sulphur have surged nearly 25% since the war began.
The Modern War Institute warns that the sulphur shortage is evolving into a copper crisis.
Only 6% of US defense contractors have transparent supply chains.
The situation raises concerns about the US military's ability to replenish resources.