Iran lays out 'safe passage' conditions in Strait of Hormuz
Strait of Hormuz (Photo: Getty Images)
Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced new rules for passage through the Strait of Hormuz, restricting access for vessels and tightening control over the key global trade route, reports Financial Times.
New conditions for vessels
Iran informed member states of the International Maritime Organization that non-hostile ships may transit the Strait of Hormuz only in coordination with Iranian authorities.
Tehran emphasized that necessary and proportionate measures have been taken to prevent aggressors from using… the Strait of Hormuz.
In practice, traffic through this strategic route has been restricted since the end of February, with only a few vessels being granted passage.
Blockage and consequences
Before the conflict began, approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil and a significant volume of cargo shipments passed through the strait.
Currently, according to sources, thousands of vessels have accumulated in the Persian Gulf, avoiding transit due to the risks.
The strait is about 21 nautical miles wide at its narrowest point, making it a critically important chokepoint for global logistics.
Control and additional conditions
Some vessels are still allowed passage, but according to analysts, the route passes through Iranian waters, allowing authorities to inspect them before transit.
There are also indications that certain ships may have paid significant sums for safe passage.
Vessels linked to the US and Israel, according to Tehran, do not fall under the terms of peaceful passage.
Outlook for the situation
Iran shows no sign of being willing to ease its control over the strait. Moreover, the parliament is discussing the possibility of tightening navigation rules.
“Iran has always pursued a policy of international co-operation…,” said MP Mansour Alimardani, adding that the restrictions are linked to sanctions pressure and attempts to change financial settlements in international trade.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is urging US President Donald Trump to continue the military campaign against Iran, viewing the current situation as a historic opportunity for change in the Middle East.
Iran has expressed readiness to examine US proposals for ending the war, while emphasizing that any potential agreement must take its key conditions into account.
