Iran to Announce ‘Exclusion Zone’ Near Strait of Hormuz

The new head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council said on Sunday that Tehran will announce an “exclusion zone” outside the Strait of Hormuz. The measure targets vessels that Iran believes are trying to transit the strategic waterway. An exclusion zone is a restricted area where navigation is limited or banned. Iran has not yet specified the zone’s exact boundaries or how it will enforce the new rules. The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow passage between Iran and Oman. About 20% of the world’s oil passes through it, making it a critical route for global energy supplies. The announcement comes as commercial vessels continue to anchor off the Iranian port of Bandar Abbas, near the strait. No further details were provided on when the zone will take effect or which ships may be affected.