Tehran develops vetting system as Hormuz traffic plunges 95%

Iran is developing a new vetting and registration mechanism for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz as it shifts from a near-total shutdown to what officials describe as a “selective” blockade, according to Lloyd’s List, cited by Al Jazeera.

The report says several countries—including India, Pakistan, Iraq, Malaysia, and China—are holding direct talks with Tehran to secure passage through Iranian territorial waters. For now, approvals are being granted on a case-by-case basis, but the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is working on a more structured system.

Under the proposed framework, ships seeking access to a pre-approved route would need to submit detailed information in advance, including ownership data and cargo destinations. These details are reportedly being relayed through Iran-linked intermediaries operating outside the country.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi recently said the strait remains “open, but closed to our enemies,” signalling a softer stance compared to earlier threats from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps that vessels attempting to pass could be attacked.

Despite this shift, traffic through the strategic waterway has collapsed by about 95% since the United States and Israel launched military operations against Iran three weeks ago. The Strait of Hormuz typically carries around one-fifth of global oil supplies, making disruptions highly consequential for energy markets.

Shipping data shows that only a limited number of vessels—mainly linked to Pakistan, India, or China—have successfully transited the strait since the blockade began. Some ships have switched off their tracking systems or emphasised Chinese affiliations to reduce risks. A newly established “safe corridor” within Iranian waters has enabled at least nine vessels to pass.

Lloyd’s List also reported that one tanker may have paid up to $2 million for transit, though it remains unclear whether such payments are widespread.

Experts warn the system may offer only a temporary workaround. Maritime law specialist Alex Mills told Al Jazeera that while the approach could facilitate limited shipping, it raises security, insurance, and sanctions concerns.

“The Iranian proposal to allow ships which travel through Iranian waters, call at Iranian ports, and declare all cargo destinations is interesting. It runs counter to the long-running approach of ‘going dark’ when entering Iranian waters and poses additional security risks for vessels while the conflict is ongoing,” Mills said.

He added that high insurance risks and operational uncertainties could deter companies. “Without operating companies feeling confident and seeing economic benefits to travel this route, ships won’t move,” he said, noting that global shipping routes are planned months in advance, limiting the ability to quickly adapt.

By Tamilla Hasanova