In a bid to assert greater control over the Strait of Hormuz amid the escalating conflict in the Middle East, Iran's Parliament Security Committee approved a new management plan on Monday.
The plan, which includes measures to impose tolls on vessels passing through the vital waterway, was formally announced by a member of the National Security Commission, according to Iranian state media, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB).
The approved plan outlines several key components, including enhanced security arrangements for the Strait, ship safety protocols, environmental protection measures, and the implementation of a rial-based toll system.
Also read
- Donald Trump mulls 'blowing up' Kharg Island in fiercest ultimatum yet over Iran peace deal, Hormuz Strait reopening
- Iranian aircraft bound for New Delhi hit by a US strike ahead of a humanitarian aid mission flight
- An impending ‘hot summer’ in Iran as US moving in 8,000 soldiers to combat zone
- Trump considers military operation to take Iran’s uranium. Here is what that means
It explicitly bans American and Israeli vessels from passing through the Strait, reinforces Iran's sovereign control over the region, and highlights cooperation with Oman in establishing a legal framework for the waterway. Additionally, the plan prohibits vessels from countries that participate in unilateral sanctions against Iran from transiting the Strait.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most crucial maritime chokepoints, has become a central point of contention in the ongoing conflict. Iran has effectively blocked passage through the Strait, disrupting global shipping, and causing a spike in oil prices.
Earlier, the US announced that its military forces would escort oil tankers through the waterway, but vessel movements continue to be heavily impacted.
In an interview with Fox News on Monday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the United States plans to retake control of the Strait of Hormuz, ultimately ensuring freedom of navigation.
“The market is well-supplied, and we are seeing more ships pass through daily as individual nations cut deals with the Iranian regime for the time being. Over time, the U.S. will regain control of the Strait, and freedom of navigation will be restored—whether through U.S. escorts or a multinational effort," he said.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump reiterated his threat to target Iran's civilian energy infrastructure, including power plants, oil wells, and Kharg Island, if Tehran does not reopen the Strait to global shipping.
