Iran seeks formal control over the Strait of Hormuz amid the US-Iran conflict, exploring a tolling system for ships. Amid the ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel, Iran has added a new demand to its negotiations: formal recognition of its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping through the strait has slowed dramatically, sending energy prices soaring and prompting countries worldwide to secure alternative fuel supplies. Dina Esfandiary, Middle East lead at Bloomberg Economics, noted that Iran has realised the economic and strategic power of controlling Hormuz. Iran’s focus on monetising Hormuz signals a long-term strategy to convert tactical leverage into sustained economic and political power amid ongoing sanctions and regional conflict.

Source: dna March 29, 2026 06:11 UTC