Iran’s parliament is preparing a bill that could restrict military and commercial vessels from countries Tehran considers “hostile” from entering the Gulf without prior approval from Iranian authorities.
The chairman of Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, Ibrahim Azizi, said the proposed legislation would strengthen Iran’s control over access to the Strait of Hormuz and improve security around the strategic waterway.
Under the proposed law, vessels from designated “hostile” countries would require Iranian authorisation before entering the Gulf.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is a crucial route for global oil and gas shipments, making any restrictions on shipping potentially significant for international energy markets.
Iranian lawmakers said the bill is focused on securing the Strait and the Gulf while promoting sustainable development in the surrounding areas.
The proposal comes amid continued tensions between Iran and the United States and Israel. Any formal restrictions on shipping through the Strait could further increase regional tensions and disrupt global energy supplies.
