20,000 Seafarers Stranded as Iran Tightens Grip on Strait of Hormuz

Iran has established the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to regulate maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

According to Iranian state media, vessels must now obtain prior authorisation via an official email system before crossing the strait, part of Tehran’s effort to assert control amid escalating regional tensions.

The move comes as oil prices surged above $114 per barrel before easing to $109, following U.S. military claims that it destroyed six Iranian boats after alleged attacks on commercial vessels. Iran denied the reports, calling them “false.”

The United Arab Emirates also reported missile and drone attacks from Iran, intensifying fears over the safety of shipping in the region.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced “Project Freedom,” pledging military escorts for commercial vessels. However, shipping companies remain hesitant, citing safety concerns.

The International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) warned: “Freedom of navigation must be restored… but it must be done in a way that puts seafarers’ safety first.” The ITF said up to 20,000 seafarers are stranded on 2,000 vessels, an unprecedented situation.

The United Nations has called for immediate restoration of navigation, warning that the closure is “strangling the global economy” by blocking oil, gas, fertiliser, and other critical commodities.

Since the conflict began in late February, Brent crude prices have risen more than 50%, with an estimated daily production shortfall of 14.5 million barrels, underscoring the global impact of the crisis.