NewKerala.com

Iran Slaps $2M Transit Fee on Ships in Strait of Hormuz, Citing War Costs

Iran has implemented a policy to charge certain vessels a $2 million fee to transit the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Officials describe the move as a new assertion of control and a necessary measure due to the costs of war with the United States and Israel. The Iranian Foreign Ministry stated the strait remains open for navigation but that measures are being taken under wartime conditions following US and Israeli attacks. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions, including a recent warning from former US President Donald Trump.

Key Points: Iran Imposes $2M Strait of Hormuz Transit Fee on Select Vessels

  • New $2M transit fee for select ships
  • Policy already implemented, says Iranian lawmaker
  • Framed as assertion of sovereignty and strength
  • Response to US and Israeli "aggression"
  • Strait remains open but not to "adversaries"
2 min read

Iran imposes $2 million transit fee on select ships in Strait of Hormuz

Iran begins charging a $2 million transit fee for certain ships in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting sovereignty amid conflict with the US and Israel.

"Collecting $2 million as transit fees from some vessels... reflects Iran's strength. - Alaeddin Boroujerdi"

Tehran, March 23

Iran has begun charging certain vessels a transit fee of $2 million to pass through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, in what officials describe as a new assertion of control amid its ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on X that the strait remains "open to everyone" - except for Iran's adversaries - outlining Tehran's latest stance on access to the crucial maritime route.

The policy has already been implemented, according to Iranian lawmaker Alaeddin Boroujerdi, who spoke to state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), as cited by Iran International. Boroujerdi said the move represents a shift toward what he called a new "sovereign regime" governing the waterway.

"Collecting $2 million as transit fees from some vessels crossing the strait reflects Iran's strength," Boroujerdi said.

"Now, because war has costs, naturally we must do this and take transit fees from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz," he added, claiming the policy demonstrates the Islamic Republic's "authority."

Earlier, Iran's Foreign Ministry said that the Strait of Hormuz is not blocked and navigation continues in the waterway, with necessary measures being taken due to wartime conditions.

In a statement elaborating on Iran's positions amid ongoing US and Israeli attacks, the ministry said that Iran has always respected the freedom of navigation and maritime security and safety, adding that it has worked to uphold those principles over the years.

The ministry noted that following the US and Israeli military "aggression" against Iran, a dangerous situation has been imposed on the Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz, directly impacting regional shipping safety and security.

Claiming its legitimate right to self-defence against the "aggressors," Iran has targeted US military bases and facilities in the region while adopting a series of measures to ensure that the "aggressors" and their supporters do not exploit the strait to advance their aggressive goals against the country, it said.

The announcement comes amid heightened tensions following a warning from former US President Donald Trump, who said the United States could strike Iran's power infrastructure if the strait is not reopened within 48 hours.

Trump stated that if Iran failed to comply, the US would destroy its "various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!"

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I understand Iran's desire to assert sovereignty, this feels like holding global trade hostage. We've seen how regional conflicts impact us here - from inflation to uncertainty. Hope our diplomats are engaging with all sides to ensure energy security for India.
A
Arjun K
Trump's threat to destroy power plants is just reckless. The world doesn't need more escalation. This tit-for-tat between US and Iran is happening far away, but we in India will feel the pinch. Time for multilateral dialogue, not threats.
S
Sarah B
From a strategic perspective, Iran is playing a dangerous game. The $2 million fee is a clear message, but it could backfire spectacularly. India has good relations with both the Gulf and the West; we must use that position to advocate for stability.
V
Vikram M
Honestly, the timing is terrible. Global markets are already jittery. This "sovereign regime" talk and fees will just add to the volatility. Our government should fast-track any alternate energy routes or sources we have been discussing. Jai Hind!
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, I have to criticize the framing here. The article heavily quotes Iranian state media. It would be better to have more neutral analysis on how this fee is actually being implemented and which "adversary" ships are being targeted.
M
Meera

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50