Iran’s parliament has approved a proposal that could allow the country to charge authorised vessels passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a move that has heightened tensions as the United States intensifies economic pressure on Tehran.
The measure was approved by the National Security and Foreign Policy Commission of the Iranian parliament as part of a proposed law aimed at strengthening Iran’s role in the security and management of the critical waterway.
Under the proposal, vessels from countries authorised by Iran to transit the Strait of Hormuz would be required to pay fees for a range of services provided during their passage.
These services include maritime and navigation support, environmental services, fuel supply under special conditions, insurance, safety and security services, among others.
Commission spokesperson Hassan Qashqavi said the charges were designed to cover services rendered to ships using the waterway.
“Based on Article 3, a fee will be charged for services including maritime, environmental, fuelling under special conditions, insurance, safety, and other services provided in the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
The development comes as Iran’s newly appointed Supreme National Security Council Secretary, Mohsen Rezaei, issued a strong warning to Gulf countries against supporting Washington’s economic campaign against Tehran.
Rezaei warned that Iran could block the flow of oil through the Persian Gulf if neighbouring countries joined the United States in what he described as an economic war against his country.
“If the countries surrounding Iran join the Americans in their economic war, not a drop of oil will leave the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz,” he said.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy corridors, serving as a major route for global oil shipments.
Meanwhile, the Pentagon’s latest casualty report indicated that American military casualties in the conflict with Iran have risen to 774, including 18 fatalities.
According to the Defense Casualty Analysis System, 756 U.S. service members have sustained injuries since hostilities began on February 28.
The latest developments are expected to increase international concerns over energy security and stability in the Gulf region.
