The United States has imposed sanctions on Iran's Persian Gulf Strait Authority, the entity responsible for managing toll requests for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that this action specifically targets Iran's toll regime, reinforcing the US's maximum pressure campaign against Tehran. The Strait of Hormuz is a vital maritime route, facilitating about 20% of the global oil supply. The sanctions, which were enacted by adding the authority to the Specially Designated Nationals list, prohibit US entities from engaging with it and expose foreign companies to secondary sanctions if they do. This move follows Iran's closure of the strait after military actions by the US and Israel on February 28, which have escalated tensions in the region. By sanctioning the authority that processes passage requests, the US aims to challenge Iran's claims over this critical chokepoint and discourage compliance with its toll requirements. The sanctions also reflect a broader strategy that encompasses military, diplomatic, and financial efforts to exert pressure on Iran amid ongoing hostilities.