Iran appears to be tightening its grip on the Strait of Hormuz through informal but increasingly assertive measures, according to reports from BlockBeats. Sources say that vessels passing through the strait are now being asked to provide detailed crew and cargo information, while certain high-value ships are also being charged additional fees.
These requirements reportedly need approval from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), with payment details often relayed through intermediaries. Oil tankers and liquefied gas carriers seem to be the primary targets of these measures.
Although Iranian authorities maintain that the strait remains open, actual maritime traffic tells a different story. The number of vessels passing through has dropped noticeably, with most ships linked to Iran or its allied countries. Regular international shipping activity has yet to return to normal levels.
This disruption is beginning to affect global energy flows, particularly in Asia. Countries such as India are already feeling the impact, facing shortages of liquefied petroleum gas.
Experts believe that ongoing tensions and conflicts in the region are adding to the uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, which remains one of the world’s most critical energy routes.