Iran has expanded its list of non-compliant ships, threatening fines, confiscation, or detention for those attempting to navigate the Strait of Hormuz. As of August 24, Tehran blacklisted 45 tankers for violating its navigation rules, raising tensions six months into a conflict sparked by U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran. The Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA) has now added 11 more vessels, bringing the total to 56.
The updated blacklist includes various types of tankers, such as very large crude carriers and liquefied natural gas vessels. The PGSA warned that any ships cooperating with the blacklisted vessels through oil transfers or transshipments will also be added to the list. To be removed from the blacklist, vessels must submit a formal application with justifications.
Following the initial blacklist announcement, multiple Indian oil refiners and a global energy company have opted to cease using the implicated vessels due to security concerns. The restrictions are expected to further hinder oil exports through the strait, which previously accounted for about 20% of global oil and LNG shipments but has seen a significant decline in traffic. The U.S. imposed sanctions on the PGSA in May, complicating any potential engagement with the authority.
