Iran has announced plans to begin charging new maritime transit fees for commercial ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz after a 60-day grace period, while granting discounted rates to nations it regards as allies, a decision that has intensified geopolitical concerns over one of the world’s busiest energy shipping routes.
Iranian authorities said the move comes after a temporary agreement between the United States and Iran that permitted vessels to pass through the strategic waterway without charges. The Strait of Hormuz handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.
Explaining the decision, Iran’s Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, was quoted by NDTV as saying:
“These new arrangements will concern guaranteeing the security of passage through the Strait of Hormuz, supervision of the passage of vessels… and also guaranteeing and dealing with the environmental consequences of the massive number of ships.”
Iran also signalled that countries it considers allies would receive preferential terms under the new policy. Rahmani Fazli said, “We will definitely consider special treatment for the countries that were friendly to us and especially stood by us during the hard times.”
The United States has strongly criticised the plan, insisting that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway that should remain open to global shipping without unilateral tolls or restrictions. U.S. officials have also dismissed Iran’s interpretation of the arrangement, warning that imposing compulsory transit fees could breach internationally recognised principles of freedom of navigation.
After reaching a preliminary agreement with the United States to halt the Middle East conflict, Iran lifted its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiations are still underway to achieve a lasting peace deal, while both sides continue discussions over guaranteeing freedom of navigation through the vital shipping route.
As one of the world’s most vital shipping corridors, the Strait of Hormuz plays a crucial role in global energy trade. Any interruption to traffic or additional transit charges could drive up energy costs, disrupt major shipping routes and place further strain on international supply chains.
