Iran Moves to Formalize Control of Strait of Hormuz as Tensions Rise

Tensions between the United States and Iran escalated on May 17 as Tehran signaled a shift toward formalized control over the Strait of Hormuz. Ebrahim Azizi, chairman of Iran's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, announced a forthcoming "professional mechanism" to manage maritime traffic. The plan reportedly involves charging fees for specialized services and restricting benefits to commercial vessels that cooperate with Iran. This development comes amid a diplomatic deadlock, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi publicly questioning the seriousness of the Trump administration's communications. Simultaneously, Pakistan has emerged as a potential intermediary. Following a visit by Pakistan's army chief, the country's interior minister arrived in Tehran to facilitate talks aimed at preserving a fragile ceasefire. However, the prospect of peace remains uncertain as President Donald Trump recently posted a "calm before the storm" warning on social media. Analysts suggest this rhetoric, combined with intelligence reports showing Iran retains a substantial missile arsenal, indicates a possible return to active hostilities. On the military front, U.S. and NATO intelligence assessments have challenged recent claims that Iran's capabilities were neutralized. Reports suggest that Tehran still retains most of its underground facilities and launch arrays. In the region, proxy activity continues as the IDF reported intercepting Hezbollah rockets targeting troops, further complicating the security landscape while Washington weighs a renewed military campaign against Iranian national infrastructure.