A preliminary bill is currently under review by an Iranian parliamentary committee that aims to prohibit US, Israeli, and other vessels deemed "hostile" from navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz. According to reports from Iran's semi-official Fars news agency, citing a lawmaker, the proposed legislation includes substantial fines, potentially up to 20% of a ship's cargo value, for any violations.
This legislative push comes amidst ongoing diplomatic activities in the region. Iran and Oman have reportedly reached an understanding regarding the geographical coordinates for a key shipping route through the Strait. Discussions are reportedly in their final stages to issue a joint announcement, contingent on no external interference.
Geopolitical Tensions and Regional Warnings
The move to control access through the Strait of Hormuz is set against a backdrop of escalating regional tensions. Iran has reportedly issued warnings to Gulf states, indicating that any new US attack on Iranian territory would provoke retaliation against critical energy infrastructure across the region. These warnings followed threats made by US President Donald Trump in late July to strike Iran's energy network.
Sources, including a senior Iranian official and regional diplomats, suggest that a broader proposed deal could grant Tehran control over inbound ships entering the Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz. While this represents a significant concession, these sources have cautioned against claims by President Trump that a deal to reopen the strait is imminent, stating that crucial details remain unresolved.
Diplomatic Efforts Amidst Threats
In response to the US threats, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi reportedly engaged with his Saudi, Turkish, and Qatari counterparts, as well as Pakistan's army chief. During these conversations, Araqchi urged Washington's Gulf allies to leverage their influence with Trump to prevent renewed strikes. He emphasized that any attack on Iran would lead to retaliation against US assets and energy facilities throughout the Gulf.
A diplomat familiar with the discussions noted that Araqchi's message consistently highlighted Iran's readiness to retaliate, while also stressing that a diplomatic solution remains the optimal path to avert wider escalation and destruction in the region.