The International Maritime Organization council has formally requested that countries disregard Iran’s efforts to exert command over the Strait of Hormuz. Member nations were advised to refuse recognition of Tehran’s independent regulations regarding transit in this vital corridor.
This resolution arose during a period of increased friction between Washington and Tehran, following strikes on commercial ships and military confrontations that threaten global energy transport. The IMO Council, through a non-binding declaration, criticized Iran for setting up an agency tasked with monitoring ship traffic.
Nations are encouraged to reject any Iranian assertions of sovereignty that might limit the internationally sanctioned freedom of passage. This pushback targets the recently formed Persian Gulf Strait Authority, which previously demanded that all transiting vessels obtain specific permits from them.
During assembly proceedings in London, the governance of this shipping route became a primary topic of debate. While the Iranian delegation did not have a seat on the council, they dismissed the resolution as a politically biased and baseless attack. Tehran argues that its maritime oversight body is necessary for protecting national security rather than obstructing international travel.
