The United Kingdom (UK), through its maritime trade operations body, has issued a maritime advisory highlighting heightened developments affecting Iranian ports and surrounding sea routes, amid escalating tensions linked to reported blockade measures involving Iran and concerns over navigation safety in the Strait of Hormuz region.
In a maritime advisory issued on April 13 by the UK, access restrictions are being enforced on Iranian ports and coastal areas effective from 13 April 2026 at 1400 UTC.
The measures affect locations across the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea east of the Strait of Hormuz.
“UKMTO has been informed that, effective from 1400 UTC on 13 April 2026, maritime access restrictions are being enforced affecting Iranian ports and coastal areas, including locations along the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, and the Arabian Sea east of the Strait of Hormuz,” the advisory read in part.
According to the advisory, the restrictions apply to all vessels, regardless of flag, when engaging with Iranian ports, oil terminals, or coastal facilities.
Key Details of UK Advisory on Iranian Maritime Restrictions
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) has reported that the restrictions cover the entire Iranian coastline, including ports and energy infrastructure.
The advisory indicates that maritime activity in these areas is subject to heightened regulatory and security measures.
According to the update, transit through the Strait of Hormuz for vessels traveling to or from non-Iranian destinations is not currently blocked. However, ships may still face military presence, communications checks, or inspection procedures during passage.
Also Read: UK Takes Stand Against US Naval Blockade on Strait of Hormuz
“Transit passage through the Strait of Hormuz to or from non‑Iranian destinations is not reported to be impeded by these measures; however, vessels may encounter military presence, directed communications, or right‑of‑visit procedures during passage,” the statement noted.
The advisory further notes that neutral vessels already within Iranian ports have been granted a limited grace period to exit, with detailed conditions expected to be outlined in an official Notice to Mariners.
UKMTO also stated that existing maritime threats and navigation assessments remain in force, as outlined in the latest Joint Maritime Information Center (JMIC) advisory updates.
Further Guidance for Vessels Operating Near the Strait of Hormuz
The UK maritime authorities have indicated that additional operational guidelines are being developed to clarify how current measures will be applied in practice. These include procedures on routing, verification processes, and authorized transit arrangements.
Also Read: Macron Lectures Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Dispute as Diplomatic Pressure Builds
Further clarification is expected to be released through subsequent official advisories as more information becomes available to maritime operators and shipping stakeholders.
UK mariners have been urged to consult the relevant Notice to Mariners for authoritative details covering geographic boundaries, transit conditions, and inspection or authorization requirements.
Vessels operating in the Strait of Hormuz approaches, the Gulf of Oman, and nearby waters are advised to maintain heightened situational awareness, ensure full bridge readiness, and exercise caution in bridge-to-bridge communications.
