Iran Escalates Control of Strait of Hormuz, Blacklists 45 International Vessels
TEHRAN — Tensions in the Persian Gulf have intensified as Iranian authorities move to enforce strict transit protocols through the world’s most critical oil chokepoint. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has officially blacklisted 45 vessels, accusing them of violating “Iranian protocols” for passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The list includes a diverse array of international commercial ships, notably flagging at least one bulk carrier owned and operated by India-based entities, the Maha Roos. Analysis of maritime records reveals that the blacklist extends far beyond a single nation, targeting vessels linked to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Malta, and Singapore. A Pakistan-flagged crude oil tanker, the Mardan, was also identified among the non-compliant ships.
Stricter Enforcement and Threats of Confiscation
In a statement posted to social media, the PGSA warned that ships found in violation of these mandates will face severe repercussions. “In light of violations by certain vessels of the Iranian arrangements for transiting the Strait of Hormuz, these vessels will face restrictions in their future transits… such as fines, seizure, or confiscation,” the authority stated.
The agency further warned that the net is widening; any vessel found cooperating with the blacklisted ships will be added to the sanctions list. To seek removal from the list, operators must submit a formal application accompanied by justifications for their alleged non-compliance.
A Pattern of Maritime Conflict
The move to regulate the waterway—a vital artery for global energy supplies—marks a significant departure from pre-war international maritime norms. Since the outbreak of conflict in the Middle East in late February, Tehran has been aggressively asserting authority over its own “shipping corridor” in the northern part of the strait.
Data analysis suggests that these bureaucratic measures may be linked to ongoing hostilities. An investigation into the 45 blacklisted ships reveals that at least 14 have sustained damage in previous incidents confirmed by the International Maritime Organisation. All of these encounters were classified as attacks by the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), though the specific perpetrators remain officially unidentified.
Targeting the Energy Supply Chain
The vast majority of the vessels on the blacklist are commodity carriers that have maintained high levels of activity in the region. Tracking data from Kpler indicates that these ships have completed over 170 voyages since early March.
The data highlights a heavy focus on the UAE, with roughly half of these voyages either departing from or destined for Emirati ports. Notably, at least one-third of the ships on the blacklist are owned by companies based in the UAE.
As Iran continues to enforce its Strait of Hormuz transit rules, maritime analysts warn that the situation increases the risk of further seizures and complicates the already precarious nature of global shipping through the Gulf. The international community continues to monitor whether Tehran’s attempt to consolidate control over the waterway will lead to further diplomatic friction or increased naval activity in the region.
