Iran Establishes Authority for Strait of Hormuz Control

Iran has created a new authority to manage maritime transit in the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by Iranian state media. This system will require vessels intending to pass through the strait to receive guidance via an official email outlining transit rules.

This initiative is part of Iran's broader strategy to assert control over this vital oil shipping route amid ongoing regional tensions. Following a recent escalation, including the destruction of six Iranian small boats by U.S. military forces in response to alleged Iranian attacks on commercial vessels, oil prices surged above $114 per barrel before dropping to $109.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced military guidance for commercial vessels in the strait, but shipping companies remain hesitant to transit due to safety concerns.

The International Transport Workers Federation emphasized the need for guaranteed safety for seafarers, while the International Maritime Organization reported that 20,000 seafarers are stranded, with 2,000 vessels affected in the Strait of Hormuz.