Iran has announced the implementation of a new protocol governing vessel transit through the Strait of Hormuz, aiming to assert control over this critical maritime corridor. Before its recent closure, the Strait was responsible for approximately one-fifth of global oil exports. The closure occurred at the onset of hostilities with the United States on February 28.
Details of the New Protocol
The Persian Gulf Strait Authority, an entity established by Iran, has disseminated a “Vessel Information Declaration” form to shipping companies. This document requires operators to submit comprehensive details about their vessels, including the name, identification number, previous names, country of origin and destination, as well as the nationalities of registered owners, operators, and crew members. Cargo information is also mandated.
Applicants must email this information to the Iranian authority prior to transit. The new protocol warns that failure to provide complete or accurate information may lead to unspecified repercussions for the applicant.
Shift in Control Over Maritime Transit
Prior to the escalation of hostilities involving the United States and Israel in the region, international norms permitted unrestricted passage through the Strait of Hormuz. However, following the outbreak of conflict, Iranian authorities declared that the strait would be under their control, primarily enforced by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) navy. This development included threats against vessels that transit without explicit permission.
As a result, only a few vessels from nations such as India and Pakistan have managed to transit the area under specific diplomatic arrangements. The majority of maritime operators have avoided the Strait due to heightened security concerns.
Iran’s Strategic Vision
Iranian leadership describes the new maritime framework as part of a comprehensive strategy for regional governance. Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has suggested that this initiative will create “new legal frameworks and management of the Strait of Hormuz” to enhance benefits for neighboring countries while also generating economic returns.
A recent post on Khamenei’s Telegram account articulated a vision for a new regional and global order that leverages the strategic significance of the Strait. Communications from the Persian Gulf Strait Authority indicate that requests for transit will receive further instructions via email.
Financial Implications for Transit
The new protocol aligns with Iran’s stated objective of treating the Strait as a managed asset despite ongoing conflict. Iranian officials have previously indicated demands for transit payments that could reach up to $2 million per vessel, with payments required in Iranian rials through Iranian banking channels.
However, guidance from the U.S. Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control specifies that such payments would not be authorized for U.S. citizens or entities, including foreign subsidiaries. The former Trump Administration also indicated that sanctions would be imposed on any entities that comply with Iranian tolls for transit through the Strait of Hormuz.
Continued Tensions and Diplomatic Negotiations
Discussions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz remain a crucial point of contention as the United States and Iran continue efforts to negotiate a lasting peace agreement. The evolving dynamics in the region underscore the importance of the Strait, both as a strategic military asset and as a vital artery for global oil supply.