Iran blocked 30 vessels from crossing Hormuz: Mehr
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Tehran alleges tightening transit controls through Strait of Hormuz.
- Hormuz shipping plunges amid Iran’s maritime restrictions.
- Iran dismisses US claims over Hormuz operations.
- Tehran restricts Hormuz traffic amid energy tensions.
Iranian armed forces have intercepted and prevented 30 non-compliant vessels from navigating through the Strait of Hormuz since August 22, according to a report published by the semi-official Mehr News Agency.
The report states that maritime traffic through the strategic choke point is strictly restricted to designated corridors approved by the Islamic Republic of Iran, requiring prior authorization and the payment of transit tolls.
Maritime traffic drop
The report highlighted a severe contraction in global maritime trade passing through the region.
Prior to the outbreak of the War in January 2026, the waterway accommodated over 1,500 oil tankers and 1,700 commercial cargo vessels.
The stark drop in traffic underscores the ongoing disruption to global supply chains and energy security as military enforcement measures continue along the waterway.
Iran denies US mine-clearing
Mehr News Agency also rejected recent claims made by Washington regarding the operational status of the strait.
The report noted that US assertions regarding completed mine-clearing operations remain unverified, stating that American officials have failed to produce documentation or physical evidence to support their statements.
Furthermore, Tehran dismissed US estimates of regional oil exports as unfounded, characterising them as part of a media and psychological campaign designed to sway international energy markets.
