Can Iran charge fees for ships to transit the Strait of Hormuz? The Strait of Hormuz, a narrow 34 km (21 miles) waterway between Iran and Oman, serves as a critical passage for global oil and goods shipments, carrying about a fifth of the world’s oil supply. Iran has proposed charging fees for ships to transit the strait as part of its conditions for ending the war with Israel and the United States, which began with U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran’s leadership on February 28. This proposal, outlined by a senior Iranian official, would involve varying fees based on ship type, cargo, and other unspecified factors. Iran’s deputy foreign minister, Kazem Gharibabdi, stated that Tehran was drafting a protocol with Oman to require ships to obtain permits and licenses for transit, framing the measure as a way to facilitate rather than restrict movement. Oman confirmed it had discussed options for ensuring smooth transit but did not specify if agreements had been reached. The conflict has already disrupted shipping through the strait, with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps blocking most traffic for weeks. A small number of vessels have managed to pass through, though reports suggest at least one ship paid $2 million to traverse the strait, though Reuters could not confirm this. The proposal has drawn significant international concern, as no country has historically imposed unilateral fees for transit through such a strategic waterway. U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized that free oil traffic through the strait must be part of any peace deal with Iran. Gulf states, including the United Arab Emirates, have also voiced opposition, with the UAE stating the waterway “cannot be held hostage by any country” and insisting free navigation is essential for a resolution.#iran #united_states #strait_of_hormuz #oman #kazem_gharibabdi
