Iran lawmakers present Hormuz management bill as US war heats up

Iran lawmakers presented a new legislative proposal aimed at managing the strategic Strait of Hormuz as tensions with the United States escalated following renewed hostilities. The move came during an unannounced parliamentary session held in Tehran, marking the resumption of legislative activity after nearly five months of political standoff with Washington. The session saw hardline lawmakers display red flags symbolizing revenge for the deaths of senior Iranian figures during the U.S.-led attack on February 28. The proposed law, known as the “Strategic Action for the Security and Sustainable Progress of the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf,” reflects a broader effort by Iran's hardline factions to assert greater control over the critical maritime corridor. This initiative comes amid heightened conflict between Iran and the United States, with both sides accusing each other of escalating hostilities. The proposed legislation could be debated or enacted in future parliamentary sessions, though its exact provisions remain undisclosed. Ebrahim Azizi, head of the national security commission of parliament, expressed confidence in the measure, stating via social media that Iran remains committed to defending its interests, especially concerning the management of the strait. He emphasized that this was just the initial phase of a series of actions to safeguard national sovereignty. While the official text of the bill has not yet been released, previous discussions suggest that the legislation aims to establish strict regulations on vessel traffic through the strait. According to an earlier draft published by state media in May, all ships would require permits, must declare their cargo, and pay fees. Vessels flagged under the U.S. or Israel, or those associated with entities deemed hostile by Iran, would be prohibited from passing through. Additionally, ships would be required to use the term “Persian Gulf” instead of “Arabian Sea,” with non-compliance leading to potential cargo seizures and revenue directed toward military and infrastructure projects. U.S. President Donald Trump responded to these developments by asserting that Washington would impose a 20 percent fee on cargo values as the new “guardian” of the strait, offering an alternative route near Oman. In contrast, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi acknowledged the U.S. stance but argued that Iran would implement a more equitable pricing structure, positioning itself as the strait’s perpetual guardian. Beyond the immediate dispute over the strait, Iran has signaled readiness to take further action if tensions escalate. Officials have hinted at the possibility of closing another vital shipping lane, Bab al-Mandeb, through coordination with the Houthi rebels in Yemen, who have recently engaged in clashes with a Saudi-led coalition supporting the Yemeni government. The ongoing conflict has resulted in widespread damage across Iran, with the U.S. military conducting numerous airstrikes targeting multiple regions. At least 11 provinces have been affected, resulting in casualties exceeding 20 individuals, according to Iranian reports. Major ports such as Bandar Abbas, located near the Strait of Hormuz, have suffered extensive damage, although the capital, Tehran, has thus far avoided direct strikes. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and the regular military have targeted U.S. installations in neighboring countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan, claiming they were attacking air defense systems and logistical hubs. Meanwhile, several oil tankers and commercial vessels have come under attack in the strait, prompting warnings to other ships to alter course.