Iran Tightens Control of Strait of Hormuz Amid Regional Conflict

Key Details Ship traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has collapsed dramatically in March, with only six vessels per day crossing compared to the normal 135 daily transits. Israeli and U.S. military strikes have targeted Iranian leadership, but Tehran has emerged with a strategic advantage over one of the world's most critical shipping routes. Why It Matters Iranian vessels now account for 80% of the tankers exiting the strait, while all remaining traffic must navigate Iran-approved routes hugging Iranian shores. Shipowners report being asked for cargo details, crew lists, and payment through intermediaries - a system Iran plans to formalize with new toll legislation. What's Ahead Iran is preparing to introduce official tolls and information-sharing requirements for passage, effectively legalizing its control mechanism. Electronic signal interference continues to complicate tracking, though some disruptions have recently eased. Malaysia and Thailand have negotiated bilateral deals to free trapped tankers, signaling that individual nations are bypassing broader solutions. The Bottom Line Without a ceasefire, industry experts see no quick resolution. Even if peace talks succeed, shipping flows through Hormuz won't rapidly normalize. Oil traders and logistics operators must adapt supply chains as this chokepoint remains largely closed to regular international traffic.