Iran's parliament has approved a controversial plan to charge vessels for passage through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, according to Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a senior member of the National Security Commission. The proposed fees would apply to maritime security services and navigation assistance in the waterway that carries 30% of global seaborne oil shipments.
Boroujerdi emphasized that maintaining safe transit through the chokepoint requires significant investment, telling local media: 'Providing security and services to ships entails costs that should be fairly covered.' The announcement comes as regional tensions persist over energy shipping routes.
Analysts suggest the move could impact global trade flows, with shipping companies potentially facing increased operational costs. However, implementation details and international response remain unclear. The strait's narrow shipping lanes see daily transit from tankers carrying Middle Eastern crude to Asian markets, particularly China, Japan, and South Korea.
While Iranian authorities describe the measure as a routine maritime regulation, some foreign policy experts warn it may heighten diplomatic friction. The proposal is expected to undergo further review before implementation.
