Iran Announces Controlled Maritime Zone in Strait of Hormuz
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has established a 'controlled maritime zone' in the Strait of Hormuz, requiring all vessels to coordinate with the newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority. On Wednesday, the authority facilitated its first authorized transits, including an oil shipment to South Korea. Reports indicate Iran is imposing transit tolls of up to $2 million, payable in Chinese yuan or cryptocurrency. The move follows months of conflict with the US and Israel and effectively tightens Tehran's grip on global oil corridors.
Date: May 21, 2026
Location: Iran
Conflict: US-Iran Conflict
Category: naval
Severity: HIGH
Source: Democracy Now / Anadolu Agency