Iran seeks permanent control over Strait of Hormuz transit, Reuters reports

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — DUBAI — Iran is pressing for international recognition of its authority over the Strait of Hormuz and wants to retain the right to regulate the movement of transiting ships and collect transit fees, Reuters reported, citing two senior Iranian sources. Iranian officials said they would not hesitate to use force if necessary, according to the report. Tehran views a temporary arrangement with the United States as granting it oversight of strait crossings for 60 days and is seeking to make that arrangement permanent, the sources told Reuters. Under the reported arrangement, Iran could begin collecting transit fees from mid-August if the temporary deal is not extended. The United States opposes any restrictions or fees on passage through the strait, according to the report. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical maritime chokepoint for global oil shipments, through which a significant share of seaborne crude flows between Gulf producers and international markets.