Iranian Army to Take Full Responsibility for Strait of Hormuz Under Proposed New Law, Official Says

Iranian Army to Be Responsible for Strait of Hormuz Under Proposed Law, Official SaysIran is preparing to pass a new law that would formally place the Iranian Army in charge of security and control over the Strait of Hormuz, according to a senior Iranian official.The proposed legislation comes as tensions remain extremely high following the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports and repeated threats by Iran to close the vital waterway.Key StatementsAn Iranian government official confirmed that under the new draft law, the Iranian Army (Artesh) — rather than the Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) — would be given primary responsibility for the strait. The move is being framed as a way to centralize command and improve operational coordination in the strategic chokepoint.The official stated that the law aims to “ensure the safety and security of navigation” while asserting Iran’s sovereignty over the narrow passage through which approximately 20% of the world’s oil passes.Context of the MoveThe announcement follows Iran’s recent threat to re-close the Strait of Hormuz unless the U.S. lifts its blockade. It signals a potential shift in how Iran manages the waterway, possibly aiming to present a more conventional military posture to the international community. The proposal comes amid continued diplomatic efforts and military posturing in the region. Potential ImplicationsMilitary Operations: Placing the regular Army in charge could lead to more structured naval operations compared to the IRGC’s asymmetric tactics. International Reaction: The move is likely to be closely watched by the U.S., UK, and Gulf states, who have repeatedly stressed the importance of freedom of navigation in the strait. Energy Markets: Any formal change in control of the strait could add further uncertainty to global oil prices, which remain volatile. Analysts view this proposed law as both a defensive measure and a political signal that Iran intends to maintain firm control over one of its most important strategic assets.The bill is expected to be reviewed by the Iranian Parliament in the coming days. Further updates will be critical as the situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues to evolve rapidly.