Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has announced the swift processing of vessel passage requests through the Strait of Hormuz following a recent memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington. Under this agreement, ships can cross the strait without fees for the initial 60 days, with all expenses covered by the Iranian government. Vessels must submit requests to the Persian Gulf Strait Authority for approval.
The SNSC emphasized the necessity of ships adhering to specified routes and timings due to safety concerns and the need to prevent maritime incidents along the passage. It assured that traffic in the strait would gradually increase and detailed executive arrangements and technical procedures would be communicated through the PGSA. Iran, the United States, and Pakistan finalized the MoU to address conflicts, including in Lebanon.
The Trump administration is gearing up for a crucial phase in its Iran diplomacy, with Vice President JD Vance highlighting the next 60 days as pivotal in determining the fate of the memorandum. Vance emphasized that Iran’s future economic benefits hinge on concrete actions, not mere promises. He outlined the administration’s strategy for transitioning from the initial agreement to a comprehensive settlement addressing Iran’s nuclear program, regional behavior, and international relations.
