So who actually controls the Strait of Hormuz?

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and natural gas, has become a flashpoint between Iran and the United States, with both nations asserting control. Traditionally considered an international waterway, Iran claimed sovereignty after being attacked on February 28, disrupting energy markets. Following an interim ceasefire, Iran demanded ships register with its newly created Persian Gulf Strait Authority and use a specific route, while also being suspected of attacking vessels using an alternative route near Oman. On Monday, US President Donald Trump announced the US would also charge fees for safe passage, mirroring an earlier Iranian proposal. This move contradicts the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which ensures unimpeded passage in international waters, though neither the US nor Iran has ratified it. Maritime traffic has significantly declined, with crossings down by approximately 52% between Friday and Monday compared to the previous week.