Iran Denies Finalised Deal With US, Asserts Full Right To Manage Strait Of Hormuz

Tehran has officially refuted reports of a finalized maritime security agreement with Washington, clarifying that diplomatic exchanges remain ongoing regarding the strategic Strait of Hormuz. As a critical chokepoint for global oil transit, the region remains under heightened scrutiny following recent tanker seizures involving vessels like the Niovi and Advantage Sweet. Iranian authorities maintain their sovereign right to manage these waters, emphasizing that no formal pact exists to alter current operational protocols for merchant vessels transiting near the Persian Gulf.

The ongoing geopolitical tension necessitates strict adherence to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, specifically Part A, which mandates rigorous security assessments for vessels navigating high-risk areas. Compliance departments must ensure that Ship Security Plans (SSP) are updated in accordance with SOLAS Chapter XI-2 to mitigate risks of unauthorized boarding or detention. Furthermore, masters must monitor guidance from the Maritime Security Centre – Horn of Africa (MSCHOA) and maintain constant communication with regional authorities to ensure full regulatory compliance and protect the safety of the crew and cargo.

For masters and navigating officers, this situation requires heightened vigilance and proactive bridge management when entering the Strait of Hormuz. Navigating officers must verify that Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponders remain active and that vessel security alert systems are fully operational. It is essential to maintain a continuous watch, document all communication with Iranian naval assets, and strictly follow the company’s established transit corridor protocols to avoid potential detention or security incidents during these volatile voyages.