Tehran: Iran has introduced a new permit-and-toll system for ships passing through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, tightening its control over one of the world’s busiest oil routes amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.

According to shipping industry journal Lloyd’s List, Tehran has set up a new authority called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), which now requires vessels to obtain approval and pay transit charges before entering the narrow waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, carrying nearly 20 per cent of global oil supplies.

Ships Must Seek Permission

Under the new rules, vessels are required to submit a detailed “Vessel Information Declaration” before being allowed to transit the strait.

The form reportedly seeks over 40 details, including:

• Ship name and identification number
• Ownership and insurance information
• Crew nationalities
• Cargo details
• Port of origin and destination
• Planned transit route

Iranian broadcaster Press TV reported that ships are now receiving official transit instructions from the email address info@PGSA.ir.

Iranian authorities have warned that incomplete or false information could lead to delays, penalties or denial of passage.

Which Nations Will Get Permits?

Iran has not officially released a list of countries that will receive easy access through the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iranian officials have clearly indicated that nations supporting US sanctions against Tehran could face restrictions.

Iranian army official Mohammad Akraminia warned that countries complying with American sanctions “will certainly face difficulties crossing the strait.”

He said all vessels must now coordinate with Iranian authorities before entering Hormuz under the new legal and security framework.

Iran has also previously warned that ships linked to the United States or Israel could be denied passage altogether.

At the same time, reports suggest some countries — including India and Pakistan — have already held discussions with Tehran to ensure safe transit for their vessels.

Iranian officials say the new system will provide the country with economic, political and security benefits.

Oil Shock and Rising Tensions

Since the outbreak of the Middle East conflict in February, Iran has sharply restricted movement through Hormuz, allowing only limited ship traffic.

The disruptions have shaken global energy markets, sending oil prices sharply higher and raising fears of supply shortages.

Iranian leaders have openly spoken about using the strait as strategic leverage. Last month, Deputy Parliament Speaker Hamidreza Hajibabaei claimed Tehran had already started earning revenue from the transit tolls.

Meanwhile, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei recently called for a “new regional order” in the Gulf and spoke about using the possibility of closing the Strait of Hormuz as leverage.

US Pushes Back

The United States has imposed fresh sanctions on Iranian interests and warned shipping companies against paying transit fees to Tehran.

Washington and Bahrain are also pushing for a UN resolution demanding that Iran stop restricting movement through the waterway.

However, Russia has reportedly warned that it may veto the proposed resolution at the UN Security Council, adding another layer of tension to the growing global dispute over the Strait of Hormuz.