IRAN has begun charging certain vessels a transit fee of $2 million (approximately Rs 18.8 crore) to pass through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, in what officials describe as a new assertion of control amid its ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated on X that the strait remains “open to everyone” — except for Iran’s adversaries — outlining Tehran’s latest stance on access to the crucial maritime route. The policy has already been implemented, according to Iranian lawmaker Alaeddin Boroujerdi, who spoke to state broadcaster Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), as cited by Iran International. Boroujerdi said the move represents a shift toward what he called a new “sovereign regime” governing the waterway.

 

“Collecting $2 million as transit fees from some vessels crossing the strait reflects Iran’s strength,” Boroujerdi said. “Now, because war has costs, naturally we must do this and take transit fees from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz,” he added, claiming the policy demonstrates the Islamic Republic’s “authority.” Earlier, Iran’s Foreign Ministry said that the Strait of Hormuz is not blocked and navigation continues in the waterway, with necessary measures being taken due to wartime conditions. In a statement elaborating on Iran’s positions amid ongoing US and Israeli attacks, the Ministry said that Iran has always respected the freedom of navigation and maritime security and safety, adding that it has worked to uphold those principles over the years.