Iran steps up claim to control Strait of Hormuz
Iran Steps Up Claim to Control Strait of Hormuz
Iran steps up claim to control – Iran has announced a significant increase in its territorial claims around the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing its military dominance over the critical maritime passage. This move comes through a newly established “Persian Gulf Strait Authority,” which has released a map asserting Iranian armed forces’ oversight over more than 22,000 square kilometers—equivalent to 8,800 square miles. The authority’s expanded jurisdiction stretches into the waters of Oman and the United Arab Emirates, challenging the sovereignty of neighboring nations. The UAE has responded by calling these claims “nothing but fragments of dreams,” highlighting the disparity between Iran’s ambitions and the realities of regional maritime control.
New Authority and Sovereignty Ambitions
The formation of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority marks a strategic shift in Iran’s approach to securing its influence over the strait. According to the authority, all vessels transiting through the area must now seek coordination and approval from its oversight. This requirement, however, has drawn skepticism from Gulf allies, who argue that Iran’s actions reflect a broader attempt to consolidate control rather than a legitimate assertion of sovereignty. The US has consistently opposed these moves, with officials urging ships to disregard Iranian directives and continue their normal operations without compliance.
Iran’s claims are further bolstered by recent military activity. Media affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released footage this week showing what it described as a “punishment strike” on an oil tanker in the strait. BBC Verify’s analysis of the video confirmed that the vessel’s characteristics align with Barakah, a Liberian-flagged tanker that reported being hit by unknown projectiles in early May. This incident underscores Iran’s readiness to enforce its authority through direct action, even as it faces opposition from international partners.
US and Gulf Allies’ Reactions
The United States has taken a firm stance against Iran’s attempts to assert control over the strait. On Wednesday, US forces boarded an oil tanker bound for Iran, citing suspicions that it was violating the American blockade of Iranian ports. The Central Command (Centcom) shared footage of the operation, depicting marines descending from a helicopter onto the ship’s deck. The vessel, identified as Celestial Sea, was said to be “suspected of attempting to violate the US blockade by transiting toward an Iranian port.” Following a search, the ship was released with instructions to alter its course, according to Vanguard, a maritime risk management firm.
Centcom noted that since the blockade began on 13 April, it has redirected 91 commercial ships. The Celestial Sea, previously sanctioned under a different name by the US for its ties to Iran, is now reported to be heading to the Omani port of Duqm, as per tracking data from MarineTraffic. This development highlights the ongoing tension between Iran and the US, with each side testing the other’s resolve to maintain control over vital shipping lanes.
The UAE’s diplomatic adviser, Anwar Gargash, has publicly criticized Iran’s claims, stating that they are “nothing but fragments of dreams.” This remark echoes a broader sentiment among Gulf nations, which view Iran’s expansionist moves as a response to its recent military setbacks. Despite Iran’s efforts to project power, the UAE and its allies remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting their own maritime interests. The US, meanwhile, has reiterated its position, warning that ships should not adhere to Iran’s rules but instead follow international norms for safe passage.
Law of the Sea and International Law
Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, ships are guaranteed safe passage through another country’s waters. However, Iran has not ratified this convention, leaving its claims open to interpretation. This legal gap has allowed Iran to justify its assertions of control, even as the international community questions the validity of its actions. The lack of formal ratification means that Iran’s military presence in the strait may not fully align with established maritime laws, creating potential disputes over jurisdiction and navigation rights.
The recent strike on the Barakah tanker raises concerns about Iran’s ability to enforce its claims in practice. While the IRGC presented the attack as a symbolic punishment, the incident also demonstrates its capacity to disrupt commercial traffic. The UAE’s operators reported the damage, adding weight to the argument that Iran’s actions are both provocative and disruptive. This incident is likely to fuel further diplomatic tensions, as nations seek to balance Iran’s ambitions with their own strategic interests in the region.
Diplomatic Efforts and Trump’s Stance
Amid escalating tensions, diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation have gained momentum. Pakistan’s military chief is set to visit Tehran on Thursday, aiming to mediate peace between Iran and the US. Iranian state media reported that Asim Munir, the head of Pakistan’s armed forces, will engage in talks with senior officials to explore possible resolutions. This intervention comes at a critical time, as both sides prepare for potential confrontations.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has delayed a planned military strike on Iran, citing ongoing negotiations with Gulf states. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the decision to hold off the attack was influenced by “serious negotiations now taking place.” The leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE reportedly requested this pause, emphasizing their desire to avoid further conflict. Trump, however, left the door open for renewed military action, warning that if Iran does not agree to the terms, the strike will proceed swiftly. “Believe me, if we don’t get the right answers, it goes very quickly. We’re all ready to go,” he added.
The Iranian foreign ministry has acknowledged the latest US proposals aimed at ending the war, indicating a willingness to engage in dialogue. Yet, the effectiveness of these talks remains uncertain, given the conflicting priorities of the two nations. Iran’s push for control over the Strait of Hormuz appears to be part of a larger strategy to strengthen its geopolitical position, even as it faces resistance from the US and its allies. The strait, a vital artery for global oil trade, is central to this conflict, with both sides vying for dominance in a region rich in strategic importance.
The situation in the Strait of Hormuz has drawn attention to the broader implications of Iran’s actions. With the US imposing economic sanctions and military pressure, Iran’s claim to control the area could either solidify its regional influence or lead to increased international scrutiny. The upcoming meeting between the Pakistani military chief and Iranian officials offers a glimmer of hope for a diplomatic resolution, but the underlying tensions suggest that the struggle for control over this vital waterway is far from over.
As the standoff continues, the role of international law and regional cooperation becomes increasingly important. The UN Convention on the Law of the Sea provides a framework for resolving maritime disputes, yet its absence in Iran’s legal arsenal leaves room for interpretation. The upcoming events will likely shape the future of the strait, determining whether it remains a shared international corridor or becomes a battleground for Iran’s growing ambitions.
Additional reporting by Alex Murray. What do you want BBC Verify to investigate?