- Iran's parliament is reviewing a plan to ban ships linked to the U.S., Israel and other "hostile countries" from transiting the Strait of Hormuz until Tehran is compensated for war damage, according to Iranian state media.
- The plan would impose fees of up to 7% of cargo value on commercial vessels passing through the strait and fine ships 20% of cargo if they violate Iran's conditions.
- Iran is finalizing an agreement on shipping routes with Oman, a U.S. ally on the other side of the strait, with ships entering via the northern corridor near Iran and exiting via the southern corridor near Oman.
- The war between the U.S., Israel, and Iran began on Feb. 28, and after joint military attacks, Tehran asserted control over the critical waterway, which was previously open for shipping.
- The strait's closure has caused major disruption to fuel and fertilizer supplies, driven up prices, and shaken economies worldwide.
- Negotiations to reopen the strait are progressing, with Turkey's foreign minister indicating a temporary agreement could be announced soon, and Gulf countries encouraging an interim deal to de-escalate tensions.
Iran's parliament is reviewing a controversial plan to ban ships from the U.S. and Israel from the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping route for global oil supplies. The proposal aims to impose tolls on other vessels, charging up to 7% of cargo value, and fines of 20% for violations.145
This legislative move comes in the wake of escalating tensions following military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, which began on February 28. The Strait of Hormuz has been a focal point of conflict, with Iran asserting control over the waterway after retaliatory strikes against U.S. military sites.
The strait's closure has led to significant disruptions in fuel and fertilizer supplies, causing prices to soar and impacting global economies. A U.S. official emphasized that the strait remains an international waterway, stating, "Any temporary routes will be without any impediments — meaning no approvals or permissions and no tolls or charges."
In a related development, Iran announced it is finalizing a shipping-route agreement with Oman, a U.S. ally, which could facilitate trade through the strait. The agreement would allow ships to enter through the northern corridor near Iran and exit through the southern corridor near Oman.
As negotiations to reopen the strait progress, Gulf countries are urging for an interim agreement to de-escalate regional tensions, highlighting the urgent need for stability in this critical maritime zone.
“The plan would impose fees of up to 7% of cargo value on commercial vessels and fine ships 20% of cargo for violations. A U.S. official insists the strait is an international waterway, with no tolls or charges on any temporary routes.”
NPR
