Iran Tightens Control of the Strait of Hormuz: Demands Vessel List and Imposes Fees on High-Value Ships, Putting Pressure on Asian Energy

**March 25** — Iran is reportedly tightening control over the Strait of Hormuz via a semi-official mechanism, requiring ships transiting the strait to provide a manifest of crew members and cargo, and levying fees on some high-value cargo vessels, according to sources familiar with the matter. The measures mandate approval from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), with fees typically coordinated via intermediaries. The policy primarily targets oil tankers and liquefied gas carriers. Strait traffic is currently restricted, with a sharp drop in transiting vessels—most of which are linked to Iran or friendly nations. While Iran officially claims the strait remains “open,” actual traffic has yet to return to normal. As a result, several Asian nations face energy supply pressures, including liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortages in countries like India. Analysts note that as regional tensions escalate, uncertainty over the Strait of Hormuz—a critical global energy chokepoint—is growing.