Hormuz compliance clash traps owners between Tehran and Washington

Commercial shipping companies are navigating a complex compliance environment in the Strait of Hormuz following new threats from Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority. As reported by Splash 247, the Iranian body has blacklisted 45 vessels for allegedly violating transit protocols. Tehran has warned that listed ships, or those interacting with them through transshipments, face potential detention, financial penalties, or the seizure of cargo. The blacklist identifies various vessel types including tankers and containerships operated by major global firms. Notable companies cited in the Iranian list include ADNOC Logistics & Services, Bahri, and Sinokor. Many of the vessels mentioned have previously been targets of maritime attacks. Iranian officials have sought to enforce requirements for ships to secure specific clearances and pay fees for security and navigation services when utilizing the strategic waterway. The United States has countered these measures by warning that cooperating with the Iranian maritime authority could lead to American sanctions. The U.S. Office of Foreign Assets Control cautioned that even responding to information requests from the Iranian body might trigger penalties. This escalation follows broader efforts by Washington to target shipping networks and registries that facilitate Iranian trade, placing owners in a difficult position between two conflicting jurisdictions.