‘No Entry without 48-Hour approval’: Iran imposes New Hormuz Transit Framework
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TEHRAN – Hormuz remains reopened under new Iran-backed transit framework in wake of US-Iran peace deal. But passage through strategic waterway will no longer be business as usual. Commercial shipping has begun returning to the Strait of Hormuz following US–Iran agreement that ended nearly three and a half months of disruption in one of the world’s most important energy corridors. Under fresh regulations announced by Tehran, ships must now seek approval at least 48 hours in advance and follow designated routes and schedules, marking a significant shift in how vessel traffic is managed through the vital maritime chokepoint. Tehran introduced new transit framework for vessels passing through Strait of Hormuz, requiring all ships to obtain advance authorization and coordinate their passage with Iranian authorities under arrangements linked to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), the body responsible for overseeing the waterway, announced that shipowners and operators must submit transit requests at least 48 hours before reaching the strait. Vessels will also be required to secure approval for designated routes and scheduled passage times before entering the strategic maritime corridor. The new regulations come after reopening of Strait of Hormuz under US-Iran peace deal and amid continued concerns over regional security and maritime safety in the area. The waterway remains one of the world’s most important energy transit routes, carrying a significant share of global seaborne oil and gas exports. PGSA said vessels complying with the new procedures will be granted passage during the 60-day period covered by the Islamabad MoU. Iran has also announced that all expenses related to security, navigational safety, environmental protection services and mandatory Iranian insurance requirements will be covered by the government during the temporary arrangement. The authority also highlighted presence of mine-affected a