Iran Tightens Grip on Strait of Hormuz Through Checkpoints, Diplomatic Pacts and Passage “Fees”

Tehran Expands Its Influence Over a Critical Global Shipping Route Iran is rapidly consolidating its control over the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, introducing a growing system of island checkpoints, diplomatic clearance agreements and in some cases unofficial “security fees” for ships seeking safe passage through one of the world’s most important oil transit routes. […]

Crude Tanker Reports Suspected Hull Breach after Blast Near Iraq Port

London/Basra a Bahamas‑flagged crude oil tanker, the Sonangol Namibe, is believed to have suffered a hull breach after a blast struck the vessel while it was anchored near Iraq’s Khor al Zubair port, maritime authorities and the ship’s operator said on Thursday. According to Sonangol Marine Services, the tanker was approached by an unidentified small […]