Iran considers 'special' Strait of Hormuz rights for friendly nations

Iran is considering imposing service fees on vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz, according to its ambassador to Beijing. Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli stated that while these charges would not be a "toll," they would cover the guarantee of transit security, supervision of ship passages, and environmental consequences of the heavy traffic.

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As countries for whom Hormuz is part of the territorial waters, we will certainly impose service fees.

Fazli emphasized that countries demonstrating friendship and support during difficult times would be granted "special treatment." This announcement follows an initial framework agreement between Iran and the United States that allowed commercial ships free passage through the strait for 60 days, with the future beyond that period remaining uncertain.

The United States has reportedly rejected the idea of such fees. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global hydrocarbon trade, with approximately one-fifth of the world's oil and natural gas passing through it during peacetime. The strait experienced significant blockades following Israeli-American strikes on February 28, leading to a surge in energy prices.

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We will certainly consider special treatment for countries that have shown themselves to be friendly and have particularly stood by us during difficult times.

Iran lifted its blockade on June 17 after signing a memorandum of understanding with the United States. Negotiations are ongoing to establish a lasting resolution to the conflict, with Iran collaborating with Oman on new arrangements for the strategic waterway.

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These new arrangements will relate to guaranteeing the security of transit through the Strait of Hormuz, supervising the passage of ships... as well as taking into account the environmental consequences of the massive number of boats.