An IRGC speedboat approaches the cargo ship Epaminondas during what state media described as the seizure of one of two vessels accused of violations in the Strait of Hormuz. (AP Photo)Iran released a statement on Saturday, saying it will enforce “new rules” over waters along its coastline in the Arabian Sea and the Strait of Hormuz, making the waters “a source of security and prosperity for the region”.The announcement came as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant reaffirmed that the US naval blockade of Iranian ports — in response to the Tehran’s chokehold on the Strait — will stay in place till the freedom of navigation is restored to “pre-February 27” levels.The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Navy said it will exert “control over nearly 2,000km of Iran’s coastline” and make such water “a source of pride and power for the dear people of Iran, and a source of security and prosperity for the region,” reported Al Jazeera.Earlier this week, Iran offered to reopen the Strait of Hormuz — the maritime chokepoint accounting for a fifth of global energy trade — if US lifted its blockade, while proposing that nuclear talks be deferred to a later phase, but Washington rejected the proposal.Vessels paying tolls to IranCurrently, ships transiting the Strait are being targeted by IRGC’s fast attack boats, forcing them to navigate through Iran’s territorial waters and pay tolls. A Lloyd’s List report last month said that ships were navigating around Iran’s Larak Island and countries were paying as much as $2 million for each vessel to pass through the Strait safely.Earlier, Tehran demanded US recognition of Iran’s sovereignty over the Strait and proposed splitting tolls with Oman, arguing that the chokepoint lies in the territorial waters of Iran and Oman.US Naval blockadeIn reponse, while announcing the US’ naval blockade in April, President Donald Trump said that the Navy would “interdict every vessel” paying “an illegal toll.” The US President also issued a “shoot and kill” order against small Iranian boats that deploy mines to choke traffic through the Strait, forcing ships to navigate around Larak.Story continues below this adThe US blockade of Iran ports is aimed at building pressure on Tehran as crude exports from the Strait are the lifeline for its cash-strapped economy. Trump told Axios on Thursday that the blockade was “somewhat more effective than the bombing.”Crude prices breach $120 markThe fragile ceasefire between Washington and Tehran remains in effect, with Iran’s nuclear programme remaining the key sticking point. Global energy markets have taken a beatdown, with prices constantly rising due to the oil supply disruptions. Brent Crude index briefly soared above $122 a barrel late Wednesday. Earlier, it had breached the $125 per barrel mark.The Trump administration has shown its eagerness to continue the blockade by skirting the May 1 legal deadline to gain Congressional approval to continue the war. The White House has argued that the deadline cannot be applied for the war as hostilities with Iran have “terminated,” the Associated Press reported.The Express Global Desk at The Indian Express delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdTags:donald trumpIran-Israel War