Iran Introduces New Rules for Ship Transit in the Strait of Hormuz

Istanbul (ANTARA) - Iran has introduced a new mechanism regulating ship transits through the Strait of Hormuz amid a deadlock in negotiations with the US regarding the strategic waterway, according to a report by Tehran’s state-owned Press TV on Tuesday (5/5). Under the system, ships intending to pass through the Strait of Hormuz will receive an email from an address linked to the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) informing them of the transit regulations. Ships are then required to comply with that framework before receiving transit permission. The step comes as Iran tightens control over maritime traffic in the strait, which serves as a main route for global oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments. Iran has imposed stricter controls on navigation in the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation for a joint attack launched by the US and Israel against Tehran on 28 February. The latest statement from Iranian officials states that ships must follow designated routes and obtain permission to cross the Strait of Hormuz. On the other hand, the US has deployed naval forces in the region to support commercial shipping.