Iran Sets Permanent Permit Rules for Strait of Hormuz

Iran has declared permanent control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, instituting a new regulatory system that requires all vessels to obtain permission from Iranian naval forces for passage. The announcement, made by the country's military command, asserts that management of the vital waterway is now exercised with full authority by the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy stated that 28 commercial vessels, including oil tankers and container ships, transited the strait in a recent 24-hour period after coordinating with and receiving authorization from Iranian forces. Officials emphasized that all ships must use designated routes and secure permission, warning that any violation would jeopardize the security of their traffic. The IRGC Navy also stated it is continuously monitoring the strait to ensure safe passage.

This move formalizes a shift from temporary transit rules to a permanent framework overseen by a newly established body, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority. Iranian officials have framed the action as an assertion of sovereignty, describing the Persian Gulf as belonging to Muslim nations in the region and labeling...