Iran is considering imposing transit fees on ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about potential impacts on global trade.
According to international media reports, the move could be an attempt by Iran to convert its growing control over this vital maritime route into economic gains.
Since the start of tensions involving United States and Israel, Iran has reportedly disrupted the movement of vessels it considers linked to its adversaries or their allies.
Iranian media quoted a member of parliament as saying that a bill is under consideration requiring all countries whose ships pass through the Strait of Hormuz to pay tolls and taxes, regardless of whether they carry commercial goods, energy, or food supplies.
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Meanwhile, Mohammad Mokhber, an adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, stated that a new regulatory framework for the strait would be introduced after the conflict ends.
He noted that under the proposed system, Iran could impose maritime restrictions on countries that have placed sanctions on it.
Mokhber added that Iran may leverage its strategic position to increase pressure on Western nations and potentially restrict their vessels from transiting through this crucial waterway.