Iran intends to introduce new service fees for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, despite the proposal being opposed by the United States.
Iran’s ambassador to China indicated that friendly states could receive preferential treatment.
Under the preliminary agreement reached between Iran and the US to halt their recent conflict, commercial ships were allowed to pass through the strategic waterway without charges for 60 days. However, it remains uncertain what rules will apply once that temporary arrangement expires.
Speaking at the World Peace Forum in Beijing, Iranian Ambassador Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli said Iran was working closely with Oman to establish a new framework governing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
He said that, as the strait falls within Iran’s territorial waters, the country plans to levy service charges on vessels, stressing that the payments should not be viewed as a transit toll.
According to the ambassador, the proposed measures are intended to enhance maritime security, oversee vessel movements through the strait, and address the environmental impact caused by the heavy volume of international shipping.
Rahmani Fazli also said Iran would extend special consideration to countries that maintained friendly relations with Tehran and supported it during recent hostilities.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, carrying roughly one-fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. During the recent Middle East conflict, Iran effectively shut down traffic through the waterway, triggering a sharp rise in global energy prices.
Shipping resumed after Iran and the US reached an initial ceasefire agreement, while negotiations continue on a long-term settlement to end the conflict.
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