DUBAI (VGMG) — Iran’s Persian Gulf Straits Authority announced new navigation requirements on Friday for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, requiring all ships to submit applications at least 48 hours before arrival.
The announcement came as the United States and Iran proceeded with a 60-day negotiation period following the signing of a memorandum of understanding earlier in the week. Under the agreement, the United States lifted its naval blockade on Iranian ports while Iran pledged to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels.
According to the new regulations, ships must submit transit applications through official channels including the authority’s website or designated email addresses. Vessels must follow designated routes and scheduled time slots determined by Iranian authorities, due to the presence of naval mines in parts of the waterway from earlier conflicts.
The statement said that during the 60-day period, charges related to security services, environmental protection, and insurance for vessels under Iranian jurisdiction would be waived, with costs covered by the Iranian government. However, officials indicated that fees could be reinstated after the negotiation period concludes.
The Strait of Hormuz handles approximately 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, serving as a critical passage for energy exports from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Kuwait, and Qatar.
The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Thursday that more than 20 vessels had safely transited through designated routes following the lifting of the blockade. A spokesperson warned that international shipping lanes should remain free from arbitrary restrictions.
The Iranian Foreign Ministry denied reports that the strait had been closed, stating that armed forces had taken necessary measures to ensure commercial shipping through the waterway proceeds normally.
The new application system effectively gives Iran greater oversight of all vessel movements through the passage, an area that has been a focal point of regional tensions, setting the stage for complex maritime negotiations in the weeks ahead.
VGMG