Iran Blocks 56 Tankers from Strait of Hormuz Amid Rising Tensions

Iran has strengthened its control over the Strait of Hormuz by blacklisting 56 oil tankers that do not comply with its regulations. These vessels are linked to the United States or its allies, and any ship cooperating with them could face similar sanctions.

The move comes as maritime traffic through the strait has sharply declined due to rising tensions in the region. The Persian Gulf Seaway Management Authority (PGSA) has updated its list of non-compliant vessels, increasing the number from 46 to 56.

The authority warned that any vessel cooperating with the blacklisted tankers would itself be added to the list of violators. This measure aims to target any suspicious activity in the strait conducted outside arrangements established by Iran.

As a result of the closure and disruption, US diesel prices have reached an historic high of $5.85 per gallon, with Saudi Arabia's crude oil exports falling to their lowest level in nine years in August.