A new traffic management system is set to be introduced by Iran in the Strait of Hormuz, as announced by Ebrahim Azizi, the Chairman of the Iranian parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee. This system will establish a designated route that will be off-limits to operators of ‘Project Freedom’, with only commercial vessels and those cooperating with Iran being allowed access. Fees will be charged for the specialized services provided under this mechanism.
The decision comes after US President Donald Trump authorized “Project Freedom” in response to escalating tensions in the Persian Gulf. Iran had previously restricted passage through the strait to vessels associated with Israel and the United States following joint strikes on Iranian territory. The United States, in turn, imposed a naval blockade on the strait, targeting Iranian ships and oil tankers.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi affirmed that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all vessels except those from countries in conflict with Iran. Speaking in New Delhi, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s commitment to facilitating safe passage for vessels, including those from India. He expressed Iran’s readiness to assist ships seeking secure transit, reiterating that the strait is open except to vessels from countries engaged in hostilities.
