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Iran asserts expanded control over key waterway
Iran has declared military oversight over an additional 22,000 square kilometers around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global trade route, according to a map released by its newly formed Persian Gulf Strait Authority.
Territorial claims spark regional tensions
The expanded zone encroaches on the territorial waters of Oman and the United Arab Emirates. The UAE dismissed Iran's claims as "nothing but fragments of dreams," with presidential adviser Anwar Gargash stating that Tehran is attempting to legitimize a situation born from military defeat.
Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, vessels are guaranteed safe passage through international waters, though Iran has not ratified the treaty.
Iran demands coordination for strait transit
The Persian Gulf Strait Authority announced that all ships passing through the strait must now seek authorization from Iranian authorities. The U.S. and its Gulf allies have rejected these demands, with Washington instructing vessels to ignore Iran's rules.
Recent incidents heighten maritime risks
Footage released by Iranian state media, linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), showed a claimed "punishment" strike on a tanker in the strait. BBC Verify confirmed the vessel matches the Liberian-flagged Barakah, which reported being hit by unidentified projectiles in early May.
Separately, U.S. forces intercepted the Celestial Sea, an oil tanker suspected of attempting to breach the American blockade of Iranian ports. The vessel, previously sanctioned for ties to Iran, was redirected to Oman's Duqm port after a search.
Diplomatic efforts amid escalating tensions
U.S. President Donald Trump revealed he postponed a planned military strike on Iran at the request of Gulf leaders, citing ongoing negotiations. He warned that attacks could resume if Tehran rejects new proposals, stating, "We're all ready to go."
"Believe me, if we don't get the right answers, it goes very quickly."
Donald Trump, U.S. President
Pakistan's military chief, Asim Munir, arrived in Tehran on Thursday to mediate talks between Iran and the U.S. Iranian officials confirmed they are reviewing Washington's latest peace proposals.
U.S. enforcement of blockade
Since April 13, U.S. Central Command (Centcom) has intercepted 94 commercial ships and disabled four vessels attempting to violate the Iranian port blockade. Centcom footage showed marines boarding the Celestial Sea in the Gulf of Oman.
