According to British shipping media Lloyd's List, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps has implemented a control system in the Strait of Hormuz, requiring passing ships to submit complete documentation, obtain a transit code, and accept Iranian escort through pre-designated transit lanes. Since March 13th, 26 vessels have passed through the strait under this system.
The report, citing insider sources, said vessel operators are required to contact designated intermediary agencies affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps prior to transit, submitting complete documentation including the International Maritime Organization (IMO) number, ownership chain, cargo manifest, destination, and a complete crew list. The intermediary agency then forwards the documents to the IRGC Navy Command in Hormozgan Province for sanctions screening, cargo priority review, and "geopolitical review", with a current priority given to oil tankers. If approved, the Revolutionary Guard will issue a transit code and provide route instructions. When the vessel approaches the strait, the code must be verified by radio, and the ship is escorted by a pilot vessel into Iranian territorial waters.
The report states that while the mainstream shipping industry has shown interest in the Iranian-controlled system, most shipping companies with detained vessels have expressed they will not engage in any form of contact with the IRGC for fear of triggering US secondary sanctions.
The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently stated, in a message forwarded to all IMO member states, that vessels from non-hostile countries that have not taken part in or supported acts of aggression against Iran, and that strictly adhere to published safety and security regulations, may enjoy the right of safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz after coordinating with Iranian authorities.