Iran’s parliament is reviewing a draft bill that would prohibit vessels from the United States, Israel, and other nations designated as “hostile” from transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
The legislation, currently under committee review, would empower Iranian authorities to block specific ships from passing through the narrow waterway, which handles roughly a fifth of global oil trade.
The proposal marks a significant escalation in Tehran’s legislative approach to maritime security.
If passed, the law would provide a statutory basis for intercepting or denying passage to vessels from countries Iran considers adversaries.
This follows recent diplomatic tensions, including Iranian accusations against US President Donald Trump of engaging in “theater diplomacy” as traffic in the strait has reportedly slowed.
Markets are likely to scrutinize the development for implications on energy flows and shipping insurance premiums.