Iran’s Parliament has begun considering a new Bill focused on the Strait of Hormuz, a move that comes as tensions with the United States continue to rise over the strategically important waterway.

Ebrahim Azizi, who heads the parliament’s security committee, announced the development in a post on X on Tuesday.

“Last night, coinciding with the downing of US drones, the ‘Strategic Action for the Security and Sustainable Progress of the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf’ bill was formally introduced in Iran’s Parliament,” he wrote.

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Azizi also reiterated Tehran’s position on the waterway, saying, “We remain steadfast in defending our red lines, particularly regarding the management of the Strait of Hormuz.” He added, “This is the first step; subsequent measures are forthcoming.”

Dispute over control of the waterway

The proposed legislation comes amid renewed friction between Washington and Tehran over the future management of the Strait of Hormuz.

The latest round of tensions began last week after both sides disagreed over how the shipping route should be administered, casting uncertainty over a framework agreement signed last month that was intended to move towards a permanent end to the conflict.

Iran has maintained that it should oversee the Strait of Hormuz and has proposed charging fees on vessels using the route. The United States has opposed the proposal, arguing that international shipping should continue without such restrictions.

Trump announces new measures

On Monday, US President Donald Trump announced that the United States was “taking over” the Strait of Hormuz and reimposing a blockade on Iranian ports. He also proposed a 20 per cent fee on cargo transported through the waterway.

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Iran had earlier reopened the Strait of Hormuz during negotiations with the United States aimed at securing a long-term agreement, but on Sunday announced that the passage had been closed again.

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Parliament resumes after conflict

Iran’s Parliament resumed its sessions on Monday after legislative work had been suspended following the outbreak of the conflict in late February.

The Parliament is headed by Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who is also serving as Iran’s chief negotiator in discussions with Washington. His dual role has placed him at the centre of the diplomatic process.

However, some lawmakers have voiced reservations about engaging with the United States and have expressed concern that Parliament had little role in decisions surrounding the memorandum of understanding signed with Washington.

FAQs:

What is the new Strait of Hormuz Bill?

It is proposed legislation introduced in Iran’s Parliament concerning the security and management of the Strait of Hormuz.

Why is the Strait of Hormuz important?

It is one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes, carrying a significant share of global oil and LNG exports.