Iran Plans Tough Law to Restrict ‘Enemy’ Ships in Strait of Hormuz

Iran has taken steps to strengthen its control over the Strait of Hormuz by introducing a new proposed law. Under the draft legislation, military and commercial vessels from countries considered “hostile” by Tehran would be prohibited from entering the Persian Gulf without Iranian approval.

On Tuesday (August 11), Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, announced the initiative. According to Iran’s state news agency IRNA, Azizi described the proposed legislation as one of Iran’s most significant and advanced laws since the nationalization of its oil industry.

Azizi said that if the bill is approved, military and commercial vessels from “hostile” countries would not be allowed to enter the Gulf without permission from Iran. He said the main objective is to further strengthen Iran’s authority and control over the Strait of Hormuz.

Earlier, on August 9, committee spokesperson Hassan Ghashghavi said the committee had approved a bill aimed at ensuring security and promoting sustainable development in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf.

Tensions in the region have intensified amid the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel. Disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz have also affected global energy supplies, raising concerns over fuel prices in international markets.