Tehran is set to unveil a new mechanism designed to regulate maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Officials state that this system will involve a designated route and the imposition of fees for specialized services. Only commercial vessels and parties demonstrating cooperation with Iran will benefit from this new framework, while those associated with what Iran terms the 'Freedom Project' will be excluded.
An official from Iran's parliament, Ebrahim Azizi, head of the national security committee, indicated that details of this "professional mechanism" would be revealed shortly. This move comes amidst heightened tensions in the Gulf region and ongoing concerns over global energy supplies, as the Strait of Hormuz remains a critical artery for approximately one-fifth of the world's seaborne oil and gas.
The plan suggests that "necessary fees will be collected for the specialized services provided under this mechanism." Reports suggest that Tehran has already begun collecting revenues from tolls on vessels traversing the strait. Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, also mentioned ongoing consultations with regional partners, specifically mentioning Oman, regarding the development of a suitable framework for managing the strait.
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This development follows Iran's earlier actions, which effectively restricted passage through the strait after joint US and Israeli military operations. The new system is presented as an exercise of national sovereignty and a guarantee for international trade security. It is understood that the designated route will be closed to operators linked to the US-led 'Project Freedom,' a maritime operation aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation.
Despite the ongoing tensions and the announced restrictions, a number of oil, fuel, and gas carriers are reportedly resuming transit through the Strait of Hormuz, some choosing to move without publicly broadcasting their locations. Exporters from the Persian Gulf region, including the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, continue their shipments. Meanwhile, Iraq has also resumed limited pipeline exports and is exporting crude via tanker trucks through Syria.
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