Iran has officially established a new institutional body called the Persian Gulf Strait Authority, tasked with overseeing and managing operations in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. The announcement, confirmed by multiple international outlets, marks a significant step in Tehran's efforts to assert administrative control over the waterway through which roughly one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes daily.
The newly created authority has already launched an official account that provides real-time updates on operations taking place within the strait. According to reports from Newsweek and the Economic Times, the body is intended to serve as a centralized command for monitoring vessel traffic, coordinating security measures, and publishing operational data to international observers and shipping companies.
The move comes in the context of renewed tensions between Iran and the United States, with Tehran framing the initiative as a direct response to recent threats issued by U.S. President Donald Trump. Iranian officials have characterized the authority as a necessary measure to protect national sovereignty and ensure the safe passage of maritime traffic through the strait on Iran's terms.
Separately, Iran continues to engage in dialogue with Oman regarding security arrangements in the Hormuz corridor, according to TASS. Oman, which shares control of the strait's southern passage, has historically served as a diplomatic intermediary between Tehran and Washington. The ongoing talks suggest that Iran is pursuing both unilateral institutional measures and bilateral diplomacy to shape the future governance of the waterway.
Al Jazeera reported from Hormuz Island itself, noting Iran's firm stance that it maintains operational control over the strait. International shipping analysts say the creation of a formal authority could add a new layer of complexity to an already tense situation, particularly if the body begins imposing conditions on vessels transiting the area. The development is being closely watched by Gulf states, energy markets, and Western governments alike.
This article was first detected through AVALW News real-time broadcast monitoring on France 24 FR at 11:34 UTC on May 18, 2026. It was then verified against RSS sources including Newsweek, Economic Times, The Hindu, Al Jazeera, TASS. The content is an AI synthesis of the live broadcast, reviewed for accuracy before publication.