Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian Parliament, said Iran will manage the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with international law [1].

Control over this waterway is critical because it serves as one of the world's most important chokepoints for global oil shipments. Any assertion of authority by Tehran over the strait can influence international shipping costs and regional security dynamics.

Qalibaf, who serves as the lead negotiator for Iran's delegation, said the comments Monday during an interview with state media [1]. The interview took place while he was on a plane returning from Switzerland [1].

"Iran will manage the Strait of Hormuz and will respect international law," Qalibaf said [2].

The statement follows previous reports regarding the Iranian government's intentions for the waterway. Recent plans indicated that Tehran intended to introduce maritime fees for vessels using the strait [3]. According to those reports, a 60-day negotiation period was set before those fees would take effect [3].

Qalibaf said that Tehran will administer the strait to assert the country's authority over the waterway [1]. He said the administration of the region would comply with international regulations [1].

“"Iran will manage the Strait of Hormuz and will respect international law."”

By claiming management authority over the Strait of Hormuz, Iran is attempting to formalize its role as a regional maritime regulator. The mention of international law serves as a diplomatic hedge to mitigate potential backlash from global powers, while the proposed implementation of maritime fees suggests a strategy to leverage the waterway for economic gain and geopolitical influence.