Iran Says Hormuz Transit Only Via Tehran-Approved Routes
Iran has tightened its control over shipping in the Strait of Hormuz by declaring that only routes authorized by Tehran are permitted for commercial transit.
In an official statement, Iranian authorities said that vessels traveling outside designated routes would not receive guarantees of safe passage and would not be covered by insurance or related liabilities. Ship owners, operators and captains would bear responsibility for any consequences if they ignored the new guidance.
The move follows renewed maritime tensions after reports that Iran turned back several foreign tankers and reaffirmed its authority over shipping in the strategic waterway. Tehran argues that, as a coastal state, it has the right to regulate navigation in coordination with Oman, while the United States and its Gulf allies continue to insist on freedom of navigation through the international shipping lane.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints, carrying a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Any disruption or new transit restrictions can quickly affect energy markets, shipping costs and global trade.