Iran Plans Strategic Control Over Hormuz Strait Transit, Classifies Nations as ‘Friend, Neutral, or Enemy’ Amid Escalating Middle East Tensions
Agency Report:
Iran has reportedly devised a new strategic framework to regulate maritime traffic through the critical Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vital oil transit routes.
According to reports citing Iranian officials, the proposed policy would allow or restrict the passage of commercial and military vessels based on each country’s diplomatic and political relationship with Tehran.
Under this emerging plan, nations have been divided into three distinct categories — “Friendly,” “Neutral,” and “Enemy.”
Ships belonging to countries categorized as “friendly” would reportedly be permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz without restrictions.
Vessels from “neutral” countries may be required to pay substantial transit fees. In contrast, those belonging to countries designated as “enemy states” could face a complete ban on using the strategic waterway.
So far, Iran has not officially released a comprehensive list identifying which countries fall into each category.
However, according to media reports, including coverage attributed to Al Jazeera, several Arab Gulf nations are believed to have been classified either as neutral or adversarial, potentially exposing them to higher costs or denial of passage through the narrow maritime corridor.
The Strait of Hormuz is considered a global energy lifeline, with a significant proportion of the world’s oil and gas shipments passing through this route.
Any restrictions or disruptions in the Strait have the potential to impact international oil prices and global supply chains.
The development comes against the backdrop of heightened military tensions in the region.
On February 28, the United States and Israel allegedly carried out coordinated strikes on multiple Iranian locations, including areas in and around Tehran, reportedly causing casualties and infrastructure damage.
In retaliation, Iran claimed to have targeted Israeli positions and U.S. military facilities in western Asia.
As per reports, Iran has continued launching missiles and drones toward strategic locations linked to Israel and certain Gulf states.
On Saturday, Iranian forces allegedly carried out a drone strike targeting premises associated with the American technology company Oracle in Dubai, causing structural damage to the building.
The reported strike followed prior warnings issued by Iran’s paramilitary Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) directed at the U.S.-based firm.
Over the past two days, several energy-related installations in the region have reportedly been targeted, intensifying fears of a broader disruption in global energy markets.
Analysts believe that any move by Iran to selectively regulate passage through the Strait of Hormuz could significantly escalate geopolitical tensions and increase volatility in international trade routes.
The situation continues to evolve rapidly, with global observers closely monitoring whether diplomatic channels can ease tensions or whether the conflict risks expanding further across the Middle East.
