Iran lawmakers introduce bill to formalize control of Strait of Hormuz

Hard‑line members of parliament have introduced a legislative proposal that would codify state authority over the strategically vital strait, a move that officials say would pre‑empt any ongoing diplomatic talks aimed at shared management of the waterway. The draft, tabled in the lower house on Monday, outlines a framework for exclusive jurisdiction, including the establishment of a permanent security command, the imposition of new navigation regulations, and the allocation of revenue from tolls directly to the national treasury. Lawmakers supporting the measure argue that formalising control is necessary to safeguard national interests and ensure uninterrupted commercial traffic, while critics contend that the approach could undermine multilateral negotiations currently underway with neighboring states and international stakeholders.

The proposal arrives amid heightened regional tension over access rights and environmental concerns, with several countries having called for a joint commission to oversee the strait’s operation. Government officials have indicated that the bill will be debated in committee before a full parliamentary vote later this month, and diplomatic channels have been urged to continue parallel discussions. If enacted, the legislation would mark a significant shift in the governance of the strait, potentially reshaping existing negotiation dynamics and affecting the broader framework of regional cooperation.