Iran establishes body to regulate, tax shipping in Strait of Hormuz

Iran has established a new mechanism to regulate maritime transit through the Strait of Hormuz, including approving vessel movements and collecting fees. According to a shipping industry journal, the “Persian Gulf Strait Authority” has introduced rules requiring ships to secure prior permission before passing through the Strait of Hormuz and to pay designated tolls. According to the report, vessels must provide detailed documentation covering ownership, insurance coverage, crew information, and planned routes as part of the clearance process. Press TV had earlier reported that Iran had developed a system to assert greater control over the Strait of Hormuz, with ships issued regulatory instructions before passage. The developments come amid heightened regional tensions and shifting diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran, including a temporary pause in US maritime operations in the strategic waterway. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil shipments passes, has remained a focal point of geopolitical friction, with Iran previously signalling its intention to formalise toll-based transit arrangements and potentially share associated revenues with Oman. Meanwhile, the US has maintained restrictions targeting Iranian maritime activity in the Gulf, contributing to ongoing instability and uncertainty over a long-term resolution. Recent incidents in the region have further escalated tensions, including reported confrontations involving US naval vessels and Iranian forces, with both sides exchanging claims over attacks and responses at sea. Iran accuses US of escalating tensions, undermining diplomacy