Tehran: Iran is considering new legislation that could tighten restrictions on vessels identified as “hostile” while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that underscores growing tensions over one of the world’s most important maritime trade corridors.
According to reports citing Iran’s semi-official Fars News Agency, a parliamentary committee is reviewing a draft bill that would target ships linked to the United States, Israel and other countries designated as hostile. Under the proposal, violators could face financial penalties of up to 20 percent of the value of their cargo, while authorities may also impose restrictions on their movement through the strategic waterway.
Lawmakers said the proposal remains under examination and has not yet been finalized. Parliamentary experts are currently reviewing the draft, and specialists have been invited to provide recommendations before it is presented for further legislative consideration.
The proposed law comes at a time when Tehran and Oman are engaged in discussions over managing maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials have indicated that the negotiations have made progress, with reports suggesting a possible framework that could grant Iran a greater role in overseeing vessels entering the Persian Gulf.
Despite the reported advances, several critical issues remain unresolved. These include the extent of Iran’s authority over commercial shipping, operational procedures for vessel management, and whether transit charges or additional regulatory measures would be introduced.
The shipping negotiations are unfolding against the backdrop of the five-month conflict involving Iran and the United States. Diplomatic efforts aimed at easing tensions have continued, with US President Donald Trump expressing optimism that an agreement allowing the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz could be achieved in the near future.
Iranian officials, however, have maintained that no direct negotiations with Washington have taken place in recent days. Tehran has also reiterated that any decision regarding the reopening of the strait remains linked to assurances that US military operations against Iran will cease.
The ongoing uncertainty surrounding the vital maritime route has had an immediate impact on global energy markets. Brent crude futures climbed to around $83.48 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate crude rose to approximately $78.84 per barrel after concerns over potential disruptions to shipping intensified.
Energy analysts note that the Strait of Hormuz is among the world’s most strategically significant waterways, carrying nearly one-fifth of global oil exports as well as substantial volumes of liquefied natural gas. Any prolonged disruption to navigation through the passage could have far-reaching consequences for international energy supplies, freight costs and global trade.
As parliamentary deliberations continue, governments, shipping companies and energy markets will closely monitor Iran’s next steps, given the waterway’s critical role in maintaining the stability of global oil and gas transportation.