Iran to charge ships passing through Strait of Hormuz after 60-day free period

Iran has announced its intention to reintroduce tolls for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz once a 60-day period of "free passage" concludes. This declaration signals a shift in the management of the vital waterway following recent geopolitical developments.

Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, who serves as the speaker of Iran's parliament and heads the country's negotiation team, stated in an interview with state television that the Strait of Hormuz will not revert to its pre-war status. He indicated that after the initial 60-day period, ships will be subject to fees in accordance with international law and navigation regulations.

This move suggests that Iran aims to leverage its control over the strategic strait, potentially generating revenue and asserting its influence. The specific details regarding the fee structure and the exact implementation timeline remain to be clarified, but the statement underscores Iran's assertive stance on maritime passage through the critical chokepoint.