Iran Moves to Tighten Control Over Strait of Hormuz with New Transit Fees
Iran is advancing plans to strengthen its regulatory authority over the strategic Strait of Hormuz by implementing new transit fees for vessels navigating this crucial maritime passage. The country has explicitly stated that it will not impose any "traditional fees" on ships, but is instead drafting legislation to introduce charges specifically related to securing the strait.
New Legislation and Coordination Requirements
Ebrahim Rezaei, spokesperson for Iran's National Security Committee, confirmed to Al Jazeera that a new law is being prepared to establish these fees. He emphasized that ships will only be permitted to transit the strait after coordinating with Iranian authorities, ensuring compliance with Tehran's regulations.
Rezaei further clarified Iran's stance on military vessels, stating that "hostile military vessels," particularly those from the United States and Israel, will be prohibited from passing through. However, "friendly" vessels may be allowed, but only with prior coordination and approval from Iranian officials.
Iran's Assertion of Sovereignty
The Iranian government has firmly declared that movement through the Strait of Hormuz will remain under its exclusive control. Ships will be required to follow designated routes and obtain authorization from Tehran before transiting the waterway.
Speaker of Parliament Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf reinforced this position, stating, "Passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be conducted based on the 'designated route' and with 'Iranian authorisation.' Whether the Strait is open or closed and the regulations governing it will be determined by the field, not by social media."
International Reactions and Tensions
Former US President Donald Trump commented on the situation during a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix, Arizona. He stated, "This will be a great and brilliant day for the world because Iran has just announced that the Strait of Hormuz is fully open and ready for business and full passage. But the naval blockade with the greatest navy in the world, from the greatest military the world has ever seen, we built it. During my first term, we built it...We'll remain in full force and effect as it pertains to Iran until such time as our transaction with Iran is 100% complete and fully signed."
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei provided additional clarification, noting, "Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz will be allowed along a pre-determined route by Iran." He warned, "If the maritime blockade of Iran's ports continues, Iran will take reciprocal measures," and asserted, "Iran is the guardian of the Strait of Hormuz and will show leniency where necessary."
Rezaei also emphasized that Iran does not accept any role for the United States in managing or securing the strait, highlighting ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two nations.
