Iran has indicated that it may begin charging fees to commercial vessels transiting the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a move that has raised concerns among global shipping operators and international leaders. The announcement comes despite recent remarks by US President Donald Trump that the critical maritime route would remain permanently open and toll-free. The Strait of Hormuz serves as one of the world's most important energy corridors, carrying roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments during normal conditions.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Tehran is not seeking to impose transit tolls but may charge ships for services related to security, environmental protection, and maritime management. Speaking to reporters, Baghaei stated that the proposed charges would be linked to services provided by Iranian authorities rather than permission to pass through the waterway. However, he did not specify the exact nature of those services and noted that discussions with relevant parties are still ongoing.

The proposal has drawn attention because the Strait of Hormuz has traditionally been open to international navigation without passage charges. Since the outbreak of hostilities involving Iran, the United States, and Israel, Tehran has increased its oversight of maritime traffic and disrupted the movement of vessels it claims are linked to its adversaries. Analysts believe the proposed fee structure could represent an effort by Iran to strengthen its influence over one of the world's most strategically significant waterways.

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Under international maritime law, there is an important distinction between a toll and a service fee. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) prohibits coastal states from charging vessels simply for passing through international straits. However, countries may levy fees for specific services such as pilotage, towing assistance, waste management, or port-related support, provided such charges are applied fairly and without discrimination among nations.

Maritime law experts have questioned whether Iran's proposal would comply with established international norms. James R. Holmes, chair of maritime strategy at the US Naval War College, noted that international law does not generally permit states to charge for passage through natural waterways. He contrasted the Strait of Hormuz with artificial canals such as the Panama Canal and Suez Canal, where fees are routinely charged because authorities provide infrastructure and operational services necessary for navigation.

The possibility of new charges has prompted concerns that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz may not return to pre-conflict conditions. Earlier this year, Iran announced plans for a regulatory framework governing vessel movements and later established the Persian Gulf Strait Authority to oversee safe-passage permits. International leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have emphasized the importance of preserving free navigation through the waterway, warning that any permanent change to its status could have significant implications for global trade, energy markets, and maritime law.

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