Iran steps up Hormuz claim

Iran has established a new maritime authority to control all vessel passage through the Strait of Hormuz, releasing a map that extends its claimed zone into UAE territorial waters.

Tehran warned that all ships must now obtain permission and follow military-approved routes to pass.

The move has been formally rejected by five neighboring Gulf states, who insist the waterway must remain open and free.

Tensions remain high as the U.S. military recently boarded an Iranian tanker suspected of attempting to breach its own blockade.