Iran Launches Persian Gulf Strait Authority to Manage Hormuz Traffic

The Government of Iran has institutionalized its control over the Strait of Hormuz by launching the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), a regulatory body tasked with monitoring and managing operations in the strategic waterway. This development comes as the Iranian navy permits limited commercial traffic during a strict shutdown of the waterway. Recently, 32 commercial vessels, including oil tankers and container ships, were allowed to cross after obtaining security clearance from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei denied reports that Tehran is imposing tolls on transiting ships, although he characterized fees for environmental monitoring and maritime safety as natural. To balance regional security with global trade, Iran is collaborating with Oman to establish a formal protocol and mechanism for the safe passage of vessels.

The operational status of the PGSA was announced by the Supreme National Security Council of Iran. The new authority has established a social media presence to provide real-time updates on operations within the strait as Iran seeks to frame its oversight as a responsible step for maritime safety.