Iran’s parliament is reviewing a proposal that could significantly tighten shipping regulations in the Strait of Hormuz by restricting vessels linked to the United States, Israel and other countries it considers “hostile” from transiting the strategic waterway until compensation is paid for damages allegedly caused during the recent conflict.
According to Iranian state media, the proposal also seeks to impose transit fees of up to 7% of the cargo value on commercial vessels using the strait. Ships found violating the proposed regulations could face penalties of up to 20% of the value of their cargo.
The proposal comes as Iran announced it is close to finalising a shipping corridor agreement with Oman. Under the reported arrangement, vessels would enter the Strait of Hormuz through the northern navigation corridor near the Iranian coast and exit through the southern corridor adjacent to Oman. However, Omani authorities have not publicly confirmed the reported agreement.
The United States has strongly disputed Iran’s interpretation of the proposed arrangement. A U.S. official stated that any temporary navigation routes would remain free from approvals, permissions, tolls or transit charges, emphasizing that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway where no single nation has exclusive authority over commercial shipping lanes.
President Donald Trump also maintained that the United States currently exercises control over the strait through its ongoing naval blockade on Iran.
The latest developments follow months of heightened tensions in the region after the conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran escalated earlier this year. While the Strait of Hormuz initially remained open to commercial shipping, subsequent military exchanges and naval deployments severely disrupted maritime traffic.
A temporary ceasefire and memorandum of understanding reached in mid-June aimed at reopening the vital shipping route ultimately collapsed following renewed hostilities, prolonging uncertainty for global trade.
The continued disruption has had far-reaching consequences for international supply chains, particularly affecting crude oil, liquefied natural gas (LNG), fertilizers and other commodities transported through the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping delays, higher freight costs and supply constraints have contributed to increased energy and commodity prices worldwide.
Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to restore normal navigation continue. President Trump indicated that negotiations to reopen the waterway are making progress, while Turkey, which has been involved in mediation efforts, suggested that a temporary agreement between Washington and Tehran could be announced in the near future.
Gulf nations, increasingly concerned about regional stability and the security of critical energy infrastructure, continue to urge all parties to reach an interim agreement to prevent further escalation and ensure the uninterrupted flow of global maritime trade through one of the world’s most important shipping corridors.
