Iran Releases Strait of Hormuz Maritime Boundaries

Iranian authorities released the boundaries of a controlled maritime zone in the Strait of Hormuz on May 20. The zone runs from a line connecting Kuh-e Mubarak in Iran to the south of Fujairah in the UAE at the eastern entrance, to a line connecting the tip of Qeshm Island in Iran to Umm Al-Quwain in the UAE at the western entrance.

Transit through the area now requires authorization from the newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority. The authority stated that vessels must obtain permission before entering the designated area. The release follows months of U.S. military operations against Iranian targets that began in late February.

U.S. officials announced major combat operations against Iran on Feb. 28, followed by a two-week ceasefire. Initial talks in Pakistan in April did not produce a peace agreement. Officials later extended the ceasefire indefinitely and maintained a U.S. blockade pending further negotiations.

A U.S. official stated that the military may need to complete operations if Iran does not sign a peace deal. The official noted that Iranian naval and air forces have been significantly reduced and that additional action could occur unless negotiations succeed.

Russian officials condemned the strikes and called for an end to the conflict. An Israeli military official said the country is monitoring U.S.-Iran talks and maintains operational plans for various scenarios.