Ships Paying Iran Up to $2 Million for Safe Strait Passage

Iran has implemented a new system requiring ships to pay up to $2 million for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz. The move comes amid ongoing tensions with the United States and Israel, and aims to maintain control over the strategic route.

Before the conflict, roughly 135 ships passed through the strait daily. However, shipping activity dropped sharply after the war began, with only 116 vessels passing between March 1 and March 25. Most of these ships belonged to China, India, or Gulf countries.

According to the Financial Times, some vessels used Iranian waters under alternative shipping lanes and carried a “dark fleet” designation, facing Western sanctions. Ships coordinated approvals through embassy negotiations and received codes broadcasted via VHF 16 near the strait for security verification.
Also Read: Final Moments Captured: Khamenei’s Last Image Released Before Death

Experts noted that cargo from the ships passing post-conflict mainly went to East Asia, with some traveling to East Africa or South America. Additionally, some third-country vessels registered under Pakistan’s flag to navigate the strait safely, reportedly signaling goodwill amid rising regional tensions.

Finally, while ships are paying Iran up to $2 million, the arrangement faces challenges due to U.S. and EU sanctions on Iran and the Revolutionary Guard. Nevertheless, Iran’s secret payment networks allow continued passage, ensuring the Strait of Hormuz remains operational amid conflict pressures.