Iran has warned vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz that they could face fines, detention or confiscation if they violate arrangements governing transit through the strategic waterway.
The warning was issued by the PGSA, a newly established Iranian body tasked with managing activities in the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement raises concerns for shipowners, charterers and cargo operators whose vessels regularly pass through the narrow passage, which is one of the world’s most important routes for energy shipments.
In a post on X, the PGSA said vessels that fail to comply with Iran’s arrangements could face restrictions. The measures could include financial penalties, detention of ships or confiscation, depending on the circumstances.
The authority also instructed cargo owners to consult an updated list identifying vessels considered non-compliant for voyages involving the Arabian Gulf.
The move could create additional uncertainty for shipping companies operating in and around the Gulf, particularly those transporting oil and other energy products through the Strait of Hormuz.
The PGSA said vessels involved in ship-to-ship transfers or transshipment operations with ships already classified as non-compliant could also be placed on the restricted list.
Ship-to-ship transfers involve cargo being moved between vessels at sea rather than through a port. Such operations are widely used in the global shipping industry for logistical and commercial reasons.
Iranian maritime authorities will also consider requests from vessels seeking to have their names removed from the list. According to the PGSA, ships must submit a formal request accompanied by explanations and relevant information to support their case.
The Strait of Hormuz connects the Arabian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the wider Arabian Sea. Its location makes it a critical passage for international energy trade, with large volumes of crude oil, petroleum products and liquefied natural gas moving through the waterway.
Any restrictions affecting commercial vessels could therefore have consequences beyond individual shipping companies, particularly if operators alter routes or delay voyages because of concerns over compliance.
The latest announcement comes as shipping companies continue to monitor conditions in the region closely. Operators typically assess regulatory requirements, security risks and potential delays when planning voyages through strategically important waterways.
Iran’s decision to publish a list of non-compliant vessels also gives cargo owners and operators another factor to consider when arranging transportation through the Arabian Gulf.
The PGSA has not indicated how frequently the list will be updated or detailed the specific penalties that would apply to individual violations. Shipping companies are therefore expected to seek clarification from Iranian maritime authorities before undertaking activities that could fall under the new restrictions.
