Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) naval forces are allowing an increased number of ships to pass through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, according to state television reports on Friday. This development comes after Tehran had largely blocked the waterway following US-Israeli strikes.
Background of the blockade
Since the outbreak of war on February 28, Iran had significantly restricted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Days later, the United States imposed its own blockade on Iranian ports to increase pressure on Tehran. The dual blockades have caused significant disruptions to global trade and energy markets.
State TV announcement
A reporter from state television, speaking from the southern port city of Bandar Abbas, stated: "More vessels can now pass through the Strait of Hormuz with the coordination of the naval forces of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps." The reporter added that this indicates "many countries have accepted the new legal protocols that Iran and the IRGC naval forces have established in this region and in the Strait of Hormuz."
This announcement follows a previous report on Thursday, which stated that over 30 ships had been permitted by the Guards to transit the key trade route.
Global significance of the Strait of Hormuz
During peacetime, the Strait of Hormuz handles approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, along with various other essential commodities. The ongoing tension over control of the waterway has unsettled global markets, despite a fragile ceasefire that has been in place since April 8.
Negotiations and sticking points
Iran's dominance over the strait remains a major obstacle in negotiations with the United States, which have yet to yield a breakthrough. Iranian lawmakers have discussed proposals for stricter control, including the imposition of charges on passing vessels.
Last month, Iranian deputy speaker of parliament Hamidreza Hajjibabaei revealed that Tehran had received its first revenues from tolls levied on ships crossing the strait. This move has further complicated diplomatic efforts to resolve the situation.
