Iran tightens control over the Strait of Hormuz: demands ship manifests and charges high-value cargo ships, putting pressure on Asian energy markets.

According to Mars Finance, on March 25th, sources revealed that Iran is strengthening its control over the Strait of Hormuz through semi-formal mechanisms, requiring transit vessels to submit crew and cargo manifests and charging fees to some high-value cargo ships. The report states that approvals require the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, and fees are mostly communicated through intermediaries, primarily targeting oil tankers and liquefied gas carriers. Currently, navigation is restricted, with a significant decrease in the number of vessels passing through, mostly those related to Iran or its friendly countries. Although Iranian officials claim the waterway "remains open," actual traffic has not yet returned to normal. As a result, energy supplies in many Asian countries are under pressure, with countries like India experiencing liquefied petroleum gas shortages. Analysts point out that with the continued escalation of regional conflicts, the uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy route, is intensifying.