UNIPA News(Washington D.C) 28 May 2026:The United States Treasury Department has imposed sanctions on Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority, alleging that the organization operates as a financial arm of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by collecting unauthorized transit charges from commercial ships navigating the Strait of Hormuz.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the Treasury claimed that the authority compels international vessels to provide confidential operational information and pay heavy passage fees in return for secure movement through the strategic waterway. According to US officials, the collected funds are ultimately directed to the IRGC.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the move reflects growing financial pressure on Tehran, describing the alleged toll system as an attempt to exploit global maritime trade amid Iran’s economic difficulties.
The Treasury Department also warned that companies, ship operators, or individuals engaging financially with the authority could face sanctions exposure. This includes transactions carried out through conventional banking channels, digital currencies, barter arrangements, or other forms of indirect payment.
Tensions across the Middle East have intensified following recent military confrontations involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Earlier this year, US and Israeli strikes targeted Iranian positions, prompting Tehran to launch retaliatory attacks against Israeli-linked sites and American allies in the Gulf region. Iran also temporarily disrupted movement through the Strait of Hormuz during the conflict.
A ceasefire agreement later came into effect on April 8 through mediation efforts led by Pakistan, with further diplomatic backing from US President Donald Trump.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes, carrying nearly one-fifth of global oil supplies each day. Continued instability in the region has increased concerns over energy security, while shipping and insurance expenses have risen sharply due to heightened risks in the waterway.
