Tehran proposes charges for Strait of Hormuz passage

Iran is reportedly considering a proposal to impose transit fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a

Iran is reportedly considering a proposal to impose transit fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime route for global oil and liquefied gas shipments. The move could allow Tehran to monetize its control over the strategic waterway, through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil supply flows.

Since the outbreak of the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, Tehran has restricted maritime transit for ships it believes are linked to its adversaries and their allies.

According to local reports, Iran’s parliament is reviewing a bill that would require countries using the strait for shipping, energy transport, and food supplies to pay tolls or taxes to Tehran.

An adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader stated that a “new regime for the Strait of Hormuz” would be implemented after the conflict ends. This framework would allow Iran to apply maritime restrictions on nations that have imposed sanctions against it.

“Through the strategic control of the Strait of Hormuz, we can sanction the West and prevent their vessels from using this critical passage,” Mohammad Mokhber said.

The Iran-Israel conflict has entered its 20th day, with the two sides trading blows on the region’s energy facilities. According to reports, Israel has hit Iran’s South Pars Gas Field, which is the largest gas reserve globally. This is a big blow to Iran. Iran has since retaliated against Gulf oil and gas facilities, including a fire at the Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar.

Iran claims that Israel assassinated its top security officials and has threatened to retaliate. On the other hand, Israel claims it has launched its first strikes against Iran’s northern territory. This is a clear indication of the escalation of the Iran-Israel war.