CNN: Iran tightens maritime control in Strait of Hormuz

Iran has introduced a new set of requirements for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, seeking to formalise its control over one of the world’s most strategically vital waterways following months of conflict with the United States and Israel.

According to documents seen by CNN, Tehran has established a new body called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), which is requiring all ships seeking passage through the strait to submit detailed information in advance through a “Vessel Information Declaration” form.

The move marks a major escalation in Iran’s efforts to consolidate authority over the chokepoint, through which roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies normally pass.

Before fighting erupted at the end of February, vessels from all countries could freely transit the strait. Since then, Iran has repeatedly warned that ships passing without authorisation from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) navy risk being targeted. Several vessels have already come under attack, sharply reducing maritime traffic through the area.

The PGSA application reportedly contains more than 40 questions, including details on vessel ownership, cargo, crew nationalities and voyage history. Ships must submit the information by email before entering the waterway.

An email from the authority warned that “complete and accurate information is essential” and added that “further instructions will be communicated via email.” It also stated: “Any incorrect or incomplete information provided will be the sole responsibility of the applicant, and any resulting consequences will be borne accordingly.”

Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei appeared to reinforce Tehran’s ambitions this week. In a message posted on Telegram, he called for a “new regional and global order under the strategy of a strong Iran” and said there would be no place for foreigners “and their mischief” in the Persian Gulf. He also pointed to “using the leverage of closing the strait” as part of that strategy.

Shipping analysts say the measures effectively institutionalise Iranian oversight of Hormuz traffic. Richard Meade of Lloyd’s Intelligence said the rules “formalizes the structure and appears to be a play by Iran to normalize its authority over transits.”

Vessels in the Strait of Hormuz near Bandar Abbas, Iran, on Monday. 

The new regime could also create legal and financial complications for international shipping companies. The US Treasury Department recently warned that payments to Iran or the IRGC for safe passage would not be authorised for US-linked entities.

Maritime risk consultant Dimitris Maniatis said Iran has already been making “demands for payments, payments for toll fees, as we say, for those vessels to be granted permission to sail.”

Traffic through the strait has collapsed since the conflict began. Lloyd’s List data showed only 40 ships crossed the waterway during the week ending May 3, compared with a pre-war average of around 120 crossings per day.

Analysts warn that even if the conflict eases, long-term Iranian control over the strait could permanently disrupt global energy flows and keep oil and gas exports well below normal levels.

By Aghakazim Guliyev