US Senator Tom Cotton has formally requested the Biden administration to impose sanctions on any entities that are alleged to support Iran in blocking access to the Strait of Hormuz. In a letter addressed to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Cotton urged for the use of existing governmental authority to hold accountable those involved, which he specifically identified as the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA).

In his correspondence, Cotton expressed readiness to collaborate on new legislation that would provide further powers to the administration aimed at countering Iran’s activities. He described the PGSA as an entity that cannot legally operate without the approval of other nations, emphasising the need for the United States to ensure that all actors aiding what he termed the “terrorist Iranian regime” are held responsible.

Senator Cotton described Iran’s alleged attempts to establish control over the Strait of Hormuz as an ongoing threat that needs to be addressed. He pointed out that recent reports suggest Iran is working with various governments to regulate traffic through this critical maritime route, raising significant concerns about the implications for international shipping and navigation.

Details of the Persian Gulf Strait Authority

The PGSA has reportedly begun collecting fees for vessels wishing to transit through the Strait of Hormuz, claiming sovereign authority to do so. Ships must now apply to the PGSA, providing detailed information regarding ownership, insurance, crew, and cargo before being granted permission to proceed. According to reports, the fees for these tolls could reach up to $2 million per vessel.

Cotton indicated that the operations of the PGSA are directly linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which has been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organisation by the United States. He articulated that each dollar collected through this toll system effectively finances an entity with a history of terrorism.

The senator cautioned that any form of recognition or support for this scheme by governments, shipping companies, or financial institutions could violate principles of freedom of navigation and create a troubling precedent for coastal states engaged in international trade. He underscored that enabling Iran’s toll collection undermines the broader global trading system.

Senator Cotton’s Legislative Position and Responsibilities

Tom Cotton, who represents Arkansas in the United States Senate, holds key positions on several committees, including the Armed Services Committee, where he is involved with various subcommittees focusing on Airland, Cybersecurity, and Strategic Forces. Additionally, he serves as the chairman of the Intelligence Committee and is a member of the Joint Economic Committee.

As a prominent member of the Senate Republican leadership, Cotton ranks third as Chairman of the Senate Republican Conference. His commitment to addressing foreign policy challenges, particularly those involving Iran, reflects his broader legislative agenda and underscores his active role in shaping US national security policy.

Senator Cotton’s ongoing efforts regarding the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s actions highlight a significant facet of US-Iran relations as well as the complexities involved in maintaining international trade routes. His advocacy for sanctions aligns with a strategic stance that aims to deter aggression and maintain global maritime security.

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