Vessels are visible at the Strait of Hormuz, as observed from Musandam, Oman, on June 1, 2026. — Reuters
– Iran’s envoy states that ships passing through Hormuz will be subjected to service fees.
– Tehran is collaborating with Oman on establishing new arrangements for the Strait.
– The fees collected are intended to enhance security and oversee vessel passage, according to Fazli.
Iran’s ambassador to China emphasized on Saturday that new charges will be imposed on ships traveling through the Strait of Hormuz, a move rejected by U.S. officials. He assured that “friendly” nations will receive special treatment.
The initial agreement between Iran and the U.S. aimed to allow commercial ships to transit the strait without fees for 60 days. The future framework beyond this period remains uncertain.
Ambassador Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, speaking at the World Peace Forum in Beijing, said Iran is working in partnership with Oman to develop “new arrangements” for the crucial waterway.
“As a country that considers the Strait of Hormuz part of its territorial waters, we will indeed implement service fees,” Fazli explained in translated remarks, clarifying these would not be tolls.
He added that these new arrangements would focus on ensuring safe passage, overseeing vessel movements, and addressing environmental impacts stemming from the high volume of ships.
Furthermore, Fazli noted that Iran intends to offer special considerations for countries that have shown friendship and support during difficult times.
The Strait of Hormuz typically facilitates about 20% of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. However, Iran had largely closed the strait during regional conflicts, causing energy prices to spike.
Iran resumed allowing passage through Hormuz following an initial agreement with the U.S. aimed at ending regional hostilities, with negotiations ongoing for a permanent resolution.