Iran has announced that all vessels passing through areas under its control in the Strait of Hormuz will now require prior permission and mandatory coordination with a newly established waterways authority.
The Iranian authorities declared that permits would be compulsory for passage through the strategic waterway. Details of the control zones have also been issued. The designated zone extends from Qeshm Island to the UAE state of Umm Al Quwain, including waters from Jabal Mubarak to the southern part of Fujairah.
Iranian officials also released a map outlining the maritime routes where Iranian licensing and coordination would be required for ships in transit.
Tehran stated that the measure was being introduced to strengthen maritime security and maintain order in navigation.
Experts say the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, through which a significant share of global oil trade passes. The Iranian move has raised concerns over increased tensions in the Gulf region and possible unease in international energy markets.
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