Iran has announced a significant development in its control over one of the world’s most strategic oil routes, as Deputy Parliament Speaker Hamidreza Haji-Babaei revealed that Tehran has received its first revenue from tolls imposed on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. According to Iranian media reports, the initial proceeds from these transit fees have already been deposited into the country’s central bank account, marking the first confirmed income from the controversial policy.
CGTN News +1
The toll system, introduced amid heightened tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, is part of Tehran’s broader effort to assert greater control over the vital waterway. Officials say the fees charged to vessels vary depending on factors such as cargo type, volume, and perceived risk, with Iran setting the rules for both assessment and collection.
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical global energy corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes, making any new restrictions or charges highly sensitive for international trade and energy markets.
Xinhua News
However, the move has raised serious legal and geopolitical concerns, as international maritime law generally guarantees free passage through such strategic straits. Analysts warn that Iran’s toll policy could disrupt global shipping, increase transportation costs, and potentially drive up oil prices if widely enforced.
While Tehran sees the tolls as a new source of revenue and leverage, many countries remain cautious, viewing the development as a potential escalation in an already fragile regional situation.
The Guardian
