UN Agency Slams Iran's Bold Bid to Control Vital Strait of Hormuz

The UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO) has firmly rejected Iran unilateral attempt to assert sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and establish a new body to control traffic through the crucial waterway. On July 10, 2026, the IMO governing council urged member states to disregard Iran 'unilateral decision' to create the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, calling its claims of jurisdiction 'politically motivated and legally unfounded.' This condemnation comes as tensions in the Middle East escalate, directly threatening global energy security and maritime trade. Iran move to create its own maritime authority and demand transit fees, reportedly in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and stablecoins, follows a period of heightened hostilities, including US and Israeli military actions against Iran since late February 2026. Tehran, which has not ratified UNCLOS, argues it holds sovereign rights over parts of the Strait and claims its measures are for national security, insisting navigation remains open under 'appropriate supervisory and security coordination measures.' However, these actions have already led to disruptions, with attacks on commercial shipping and approximately 20,000 seafarers stranded, pushing Brent crude oil prices to $126 per barrel earlier in March 2026. The international community, led by the US, continues to press Iran to publicly declare the Strait of Hormuz open to free passage, warning that internal power struggles within Tehran are complicating efforts to maintain a fragile interim truce. The coming weeks will test whether diplomatic efforts can avert further military escalation and ensure the unimpeded flow of oil and goods through this vital chokepoint, or if Iran defiance will reshape international maritime law and trade.