For the first time, Iran has successfully collected transit fees from vessels traversing the strategic Strait of Hormuz, intensifying the maritime tensions that have been impacting global energy markets since February. According to Hamidreza Haji Babaei, the deputy speaker of Iran’s parliament, these initial payments have been deposited into the Central Bank of Iran. The announcement, originally reported by the Tasnim News Agency, was confirmed by lawmaker Alireza Salimi, who cited reliable sources regarding the receipt of the fees.
No specific figures were released by the officials, but it is known that the fees vary according to the type and volume of cargo, as well as the perceived risk. Industry insiders have suggested that charges can reach up to two million dollars per vessel.
The Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for approximately 20% of the world’s oil and gas, has been a focal point since hostilities began on February 28. Due to Iran’s restrictive measures, daily ship traffic has plummeted from around 150 vessels to fewer than six. Iran’s recent actions have included the seizure of two foreign ships by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) for non-compliance with local maritime regulations.
Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has firmly stated the strait will not reopen while a U.S. naval blockade remains in effect at Iranian ports. Tehran insists that vessels from nations deemed hostile must coordinate their passage with Iranian military forces.
U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated no urgency in resolving the conflict, emphasizing the desire for a favorable agreement without a fixed timeline. He has also cautioned that ships paying Iranian transit fees could face U.S. interception.
The ongoing situation is causing broader economic disruptions. Airlines, including Lufthansa, have reported soaring fuel costs due to the disrupted supply routes in the Gulf, while Brent crude prices hover near $100 per barrel. Meanwhile, military representatives from over 30 countries are convening at a Royal Air Force base in the UK to plan a coordinated international effort to secure the waterway, contingent on a lasting ceasefire.
