Iran imposes new transit rules on Strait of Hormuz

Iran imposes new transit rules on Strait of Hormuz

Iran has imposed new restrictions on ship movement through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz amid ongoing tit-for-tat blockades between the United States and Iran in the Middle East conflict. Ships must now obtain prior permission and pay a specific toll or fee to transit the waterway.

Nearly one-fifth of global energy supplies pass through this narrow strait, which has now come under Tehran's direct control.

According to the shipping journal Lloyd's List, the 'Persian Gulf Strait Authority' has introduced a new framework requiring vessels to submit a 'Vessel Information Declaration' form for transit approval. The form contains over 40 questions, requiring detailed information on vessel ownership, insurance, crew details, proposed routes, vessel's current and previous names, identification numbers, origin and destination, and cargo description.

Iranian state media confirmed that this special system has been established to assert sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's military has warned that those who comply with US sanctions on Iran will face severe difficulties transiting the strait.

Countries such as India and Pakistan are already attempting to secure safe passage for their flagged vessels through negotiations with Tehran. However, Iran has indicated that vessels associated with the United States or Israel will not be permitted to use the strait.

Washington has strongly opposed Iran's move, with the Trump administration warning ships not to pay the toll. The United States, in coordination with Bahrain, has also initiated efforts to pass a resolution at the United Nations, though Russia has indicated it would veto such a proposal.

The disruption of the strait since the Middle East war began in February has already caused significant instability in global energy prices and the world economy. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has stated that they will use this control over the Strait of Hormuz as a major tool to end foreign interference in the region and build a 'strong Iran'.