Iran created a new government agency on Wednesday, May 8, 2026, to vet and tax vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz [1].
The move increases Tehran's control over one of the world's most critical maritime chokepoints. By establishing a formal mechanism to tax and monitor shipping, Iran gains significant economic and strategic leverage during a period of heightened tension with the U.S.
The new authority focuses its operations in the Strait of Hormuz, including the strategic area around Qeshm Island [1, 2]. According to Lloyd's List Intelligence, the agency was designed specifically to vet and tax ships in the region [3]. This administrative shift occurs as the Iranian state and armed forces seek greater oversight of maritime traffic.
Simultaneously, Iranian officials said on Wednesday they were reviewing a U.S. peace proposal [2]. Sources said the proposal would formally end the war [2]. Other reports indicate the memorandum includes calls for free access to the strait, curbs on Iran's nuclear program, and the lifting of U.S. sanctions [4].
Iranian state media referred to the U.S. as "the enemy" [1]. While the peace proposal is under review, some sources said that key U.S. demands remain unresolved [2].
The establishment of the shipping agency allows Iran to maintain a position of strength while negotiating the terms of the peace deal. By exercising authority over the waterway, Tehran can pressure international shipping interests even as it discusses the potential end of hostilities [3, 4].
“"to vet and tax ships in the Strait of Hormuz"”
The simultaneous creation of a taxation authority and the review of a peace deal suggests a dual-track strategy. Iran is establishing a permanent institutional grip on the Strait of Hormuz to ensure it has tangible leverage and revenue streams, regardless of whether the U.S. peace proposal is accepted or the nuclear program is curtailed.
