IRAN CLAIMS CONTROL OVER STRAIT OF HORMUZ SHIPPING Iranian state TV says all vessels are now awaiting permission to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, signaling tighter control over the key shipping lane. A reporter for IRIB said no ships are currently transiting and claimed approvals from Iran’s naval forces are required for passage. The broadcast framed this as Iran asserting authority over maritime traffic in the area. Shipping intelligence sources also reported a new Iranian body to oversee transits and collect fees, while noting no vessel movement through the strait in recent days.(*Walter Bloomberg)