TEHRAN — Iranian authorities have implemented a new regulatory framework for the Strait of Hormuz, requiring all international shipping companies to obtain electronic transit permits before entering the waterway. According to state-run Press TV, the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) will issue instructions and updated passage requirements via email to vessels navigating the chokepoint, which handles approximately 20 percent of global oil transit.

The 'sovereign governance system' comes amid a broader legislative push in the Iranian parliament to formalize restrictions on vessels linked to the United States and Israel. The proposed law includes a toll system for non-hostile ships and follows a period of restricted access resulting from regional conflict and failed negotiations between Tehran and Washington in Islamabad.

In response to the restrictions, U.S. President Donald Trump announced 'Project Freedom,' a plan for the U.S. military to escort ships out of the Strait starting Monday morning. However, the plan was placed on pause Wednesday following warnings from Iran’s Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters. The Iranian military command stated that any foreign armed forces attempting to enter the strait would be targeted.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf attributed the maritime instability to U.S. violations of ceasefire agreements and the imposition of a blockade. The Iranian parliament is expected to vote on the formalization of the toll and permit legislation in the coming days as military forces on both sides remain on high alert.