• Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy now requires all commercial vessels to coordinate with Iran before transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
  • In the past 24 hours, 26 vessels—including oil tankers, container ships, and other commercial ships—have transited under IRGC-monitored control.
  • The new system threatens to disrupt global oil flows, as the strait handles about one-fifth of the world's traded oil.

IRGC's Tightened Grip on a Global Chokepoint

The IRGC Navy announced that 26 vessels, including oil tankers, container ships, and other commercial ships, transited the Strait of Hormuz in the past 24 hours under a new coordinated transit system, according to a statement. The system effectively gives Iran gatekeeping power over one of the world's most critical shipping lanes.

Since March 15, 2026, no vessels have used the traditional shipping route. Instead, all 26 tracked transits since March 13 have been routed through an IRGC-controlled detour near Larak Island, according to shipping data. The IRGC operates what analysts have dubbed a "Tehran toll booth," requiring ships to submit to vetting and use a pre-approved corridor.

"Without coordination, the strait is effectively closed to hostile shipping," an IRGC spokesperson said, noting that three container ships were turned back in late March for attempting to transit without approval. Iran's navy has also warned vessels of possible anti-ship mines in the main traffic zone, citing a "past war situation" as justification.

Political and Economic Stakes

The new system follows heightened U.S.-Iran tensions in early 2026, including U.S. warnings over Iran's live-fire military drills in the strait in January. In April, a top U.S. military commander claimed a "full blockade" of Iranian ports was implemented, while Iran countered that vessels transited "without concealment."

For the shipping industry, the new approval process increases costs and transit complexity. Vessels must now obtain IRGC clearance codes and accept Iranian escort services. The stakes are high: the Strait of Hormuz handles roughly 20% of the world's traded oil, and any disruption could spike global prices.

Some transits involve sanctions-linked "shadow fleet" vessels connected to Iranian trade, adding another layer of complexity. Shipping companies now face a difficult choice: navigate the IRGC's system or risk being turned back.

Long-Term Implications

Experts warn that the IRGC's asserted control could normalize Iranian authority over a critical chokepoint. The risk of escalating U.S.-Iran maritime confrontation looms if Washington challenges the new system. Regional states like the UAE and Oman are watching closely, concerned about spillover from tensions.

Oil-importing nations remain vulnerable to potential supply disruptions, while the global economy faces exposure to oil price volatility. Insurance costs for Persian Gulf traffic are expected to rise, and some shipping may be rerouted altogether.

Correction: An earlier version of this article stated that 26 vessels transited since March 13. In fact, 26 vessels transited in the past 24 hours, with all tracked transits since March 13 using the IRGC-controlled route.