Iran envoy says friendly nations to get 'special' Strait of Hormuz fee treatment

Iran intends to implement new fees for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, despite objections from Washington, while assuring preferential treatment for allied nations. Iran's ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, announced the plan at the World Peace Forum in Beijing.

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As a country where the Hormuz is part of its territorial waters, we will definitely charge service fees.

Fazli clarified that these charges would be service fees, not tolls, and are aimed at ensuring the security of passage, supervising vessels, and managing environmental impacts. He emphasized that countries that have supported Iran during difficult times will be given "special treatment."

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These new arrangements will be concerning guaranteeing the security of passage through the Straits of Hormuz, supervision of the passage of the vessels... and also guaranteeing and dealing with the environmental consequences of the massive number of ships.

The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint, normally carrying a fifth of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas. Its closure during the Middle East war previously caused energy prices to surge. Iran lifted its blockade after reaching an initial deal with the United States to end the conflict, with negotiations for a permanent settlement ongoing.

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We will definitely consider special treatment for the countries that were friendly to us and specially stood by us during the hard times.