Iran Parliament Approves Strait of Hormuz Fee for Ships Amid US Pressure

Iran's parliament has approved a provision that would allow the country to charge fees for vessels transiting the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a move that escalates tensions as the United States prepares to intensify economic pressure on Tehran. The measure, approved by the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, would permit Tehran to collect fees from authorized vessels for services like maritime, environmental, and security support.

"Based on Article 3, a fee will be charged for services including maritime, environmental, fuelling under special conditions, insurance, safety, and other services provided in the Strait of Hormuz," said commission spokesperson Hassan Qashqavi. Payments could be made in Iranian rials or another currency designated by Tehran. The proposal is part of a broader "Strategic Action Plan to Ensure the Security and Development of the Strait of Hormuz" and must still be considered by the full parliament and the Guardian Council.

This development coincides with a stark warning from Iran's newly appointed Supreme National Security Council secretary, Mohsen Rezaei, to Gulf nations. He threatened that Tehran would prevent oil from leaving the Persian Gulf if regional states supported Washington's economic campaign against Iran. These actions have significantly raised the stakes in the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States, with global energy markets already exposed to potential supply constraints due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

While the proposed legislation recognizes freedom of navigation under international law, it also aims to protect the sovereignty and security interests of countries bordering the Strait. Qashqavi referenced the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and Oman's stance on the balance between international maritime rules and national sovereignty. The measure, however, still faces further legislative review before it can be enacted.

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Based on Article 3, a fee will be charged for services including maritime, environmental, fuelling under special conditions, insurance, safety, and other services provided in the Strait of Hormuz.