Iran establishes controlled maritime zone in the Strait of Hormuz

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has formally rejected Iran’s establishment of a new administrative structure and controlled maritime zone in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a move that implemented a mandatory permit and fee system for all transiting vessels.

Iran’s newly created Persian Gulf Strait of Hormuz Authority has begun overseeing an extensive surveillance and permit system. According to the new regulations, all ships entering the zone, which stretches from Iran’s Qeshm Island to an area south of the Emirati state of Fujairah, are required to contact the Iranian authority, obtain a permit, and pay associated fees.

In response, UAE Presidential Adviser Anwar Gargash stated that there will be no compromise on maritime sovereignty. He characterized Iran’s action as a continuation of long-standing regional tensions and emphasized that restoring trust in the region is only possible through responsible behavior.

The adviser also called on Iran to abide by the principles of good neighborliness with Arab countries. The establishment of this controlled area by Tehran represents a significant escalation in its maritime strategy, heightening regional tensions amid ongoing geopolitical friction over freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints.