Iran is planning to impose service fees on ships navigating the strategic Strait of Hormuz, with special considerations for friendly countries. Speaking at the World Peace Forum in Beijing on 4/7, Iran's Ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, announced that Iran is collaborating with Oman to establish new mechanisms for the waterway. Fazli emphasized that these would be "service fees" and "not transit fees", asserting Iran's right to levy charges as the strait lies within its territorial waters.

The new mechanisms, according to the Iranian ambassador, will focus on ensuring maritime security, monitoring vessel traffic in the area, and addressing environmental impacts caused by high traffic volumes.

Cargo ships in the Strait of Hormuz on 30/6. Photo: AP

Fazli noted that Iran would "certainly consider special treatment for friendly nations, especially those who have stood by us during difficult times", though he did not specify which countries or what measures would be applied. Nournews agency later reported Fazli's statement that Iran would apply "special considerations" to China and other friendly nations when determining the level and type of service fees for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

The Strait of Hormuz is a vital waterway through which approximately 20% of the world's crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes during peacetime. This crucial shipping lane was almost completely blockaded by Iran after the Middle East conflict erupted in late February, leading to a surge in global energy prices.

Iran lifted its blockade of the Strait of Hormuz after reaching a preliminary agreement with the US to end hostilities. Negotiations for a lasting resolution to the conflict are ongoing. Under the preliminary agreement signed by the US and Iran last month, commercial vessels were permitted to pass through the strait free of charge for 60 days. It remains unclear what will happen after this period concludes.

The US has stated that Iran will not be permitted to impose transit fees or any charges on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz in a final agreement.

Location of the Strait of Hormuz. Graphic: Guardian

US President Donald Trump stated on 24/6 that Iran had assured him no fees would be collected from vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. He warned that if Iran failed to honor these assurances, negotiations would cease immediately.

Iran and Oman, the two nations bordering the strait, have established a joint committee to determine how to manage this strategic maritime route.

Pham Giang (According to AFP, Nournews, Al Jazeera)