Iran Plans New Restricted Zone in the Strait of Hormuz
Iran has announced it will establish a new restricted zone in the Strait of Hormuz following clashes with Washington.
Following mutual vessel attacks in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz between Iran and the United States, Tehran announced plans to establish a new restricted zone.
Background of the Restricted Zone Plan
Mutual ship attacks in the critical waterway escalated again following the expiration of a 60-day memorandum of understanding signed between Iran and Washington on June 17.
Mutual Blockade and Attacks at Sea
The latest tension began when Iran targeted US warships escorting oil tankers trying to break the blockade in the strait, while a US naval blockade on Iranian ports also exerts pressure on trade.
Official Statement and Uncertainty of Details
Secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Mohsen Rezaei stated that the restricted zone will start from the US Navy's blockade line, cover parts of the Persian Gulf, and be declared in the coming days.
The Tehran administration has not yet shared detailed information regarding the exact boundaries of the newly created zone and what being placed on a sanctions list would mean for vessels entering it.