Can Iran enforce a restricted zone in the Strait of Hormuz?

WASHINGTON: Iran unveils plans for a restricted zone, but will Tehran be able to enforce it amid escalating tensions with the US?.

Iran says it plans to establish a new restricted zone around the Strait of Hormuz, a global energy chokepoint, after Tehran and Washington traded attacks on ships in the crucial waterway in what experts called a "dangerous escalation".

The two sides have been engaged in on-and-off attacks since a 60-day memorandum of understanding (MoU), signed on June 17, expired last month.

The latest escalation started after Iran targeted US warships patrolling and escorting oil tankers trying to evade the Tehran-imposed blockade of the strait. Meanwhile, a US naval blockade of the Iranian ports has drastically restricted its oil and other trade.

The MoU, which had ended the months-long military hostility, collapsed after 60 days due to disputes over who had ultimate control over the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has used as leverage in the war against the United States.

Oil tankers have become the latest targets in the US-Israel war on Iran, with Tehran repeatedly warning vessels against using unauthorised routes through the Strait of Hormuz amid reports that a growing number of oil tankers are passing through the waterway. Prior to the start of the war, 20 percent of the world's oil and gas supplies flowed through the strait.

So, where exactly will Iran's proposed zone be, what restrictions will apply, and how does Tehran intend to enforce this?

Iran unveils plans for a restricted zone, but will Tehran be able to enforce it amid escalating tensions with the US?