Iran panel approves fees for ships using Strait of Hormuz

The Iranian parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee on Sunday approved a draft law provision authorizing Tehran to impose fees on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to the official IRNA news agency.

Fee provisions

Committee spokesperson Hassan Qashqavi stated that members endorsed Article 3 of the "Strategic Action Plan to Ensure the Security and Development of the Strait of Hormuz" following a postponement at a previous meeting. The measure permits charges for navigation and environmental services, fuel supplies in special cases, insurance, security and other services provided in the strait, with fees collected from vessels of permitted countries in Iranian rials or currencies designated by Tehran. Qashqavi maintained that the draft respects the rights of states bordering the waterway and recognizes freedom of maritime navigation under international law while emphasizing coastal sovereignty and security protections.

War context

The Strait of Hormuz has emerged as a central obstacle in efforts to end the US-Israeli war on Iran that began in February. While the waterway previously allowed free passage as a critical Gulf oil and gas export route, Tehran now insists on retaining control and charging fees — a position Washington firmly rejects.

Legislative process

For the proposal to become law, the committee's report must advance to the full parliament for debate and approval of individual provisions. If passed, the Guardian Council will review the text for constitutional and Islamic compliance before presidential promulgation, with the Expediency Council empowered to resolve any disputes between the bodies.