The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported on June 27, 2026, that Iran is using force to maintain its control over the Strait of Hormuz in the immediate future. Iran is likely attempting to prevent vessels from using non-Iranian shipping channels with force in the immediate term as it continues negotiations with Gulf Arab states. Iran is also standing firm on its requirement to approve vessels' passage through the strait, which provides it with significant leverage that it could exploit at will.