Map of dominance: Why Iran can’t afford to give up Hormuz control
The story
The vital passageway is key for Tehran as it seeks to leverage in negotiations with Washington.
From the source
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info The Strait of Hormuz is a vital passageway for about a quarter of global seaborne oil trade and significant volumes of liquefied natural gas and fertilisers [Amirhosein Khorgooi/ISNA/WANA via Reuters] By Federica Marsi Published On 5 May 2026 5 May 2026 A new map featuring two red lines stretching beyond the Strait of Hormuz has become the latest symbol of the escalating war of attrition between Iran and the US.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on Monday released a map marking an expanded maritime area of control to include lengthy sections of the United Arab Emirates’s coastline. In the west, a line stretches between the westernmost tip of Iran’s Qeshm Island to the UAE’s Umm al Quwain emirate, while in the east, a second line joins Iran’s Mount Mobarak and the UAE’s Fujairah.
The announcement came after US President Donald Trump launched a new effort to open the vital energy chokepoint – which has been largely closed since the US-Israel war on Iran began on February 28 – by sending the navy to escort stranded tankers through the strait, in a campaign dubbed “Project Freedom”.
Who and what
Key names and topics in this story: Iran, Hormuz.
Where to follow next
- Read the full piece at www.aljazeera.com
- More from our World news coverage
Related stories
US-Iran ceasefire holds despite Hormuz standoff: Pentagon chief Hegseth
Trump aide says the US has established a security dome for ships over Hormuz, but traffic in strait remains stalled.
Iran war: What’s happening on day 67 as Hormuz crisis deepens?
The UAE says it intercepted Iranian missiles after a suspected drone attack, with no comment from Iran.
Hormuz tensions push ceasefire to the brink as Trump threatens Iran
US military says it is encouraging ships to pass through Hormuz Strait, but Iran says it is in full control of waterway.
US official says China is ‘funding’ Iran, urges Beijing to help open Hormuz
Scott Bessent says US has absolute control of Hormuz, but calls on China to step up with diplomacy to reopen strait.