Iran Collects First Transit Tolls from Strait of Hormuz

The Central Bank of the Islamic Republic of Iran has announced the successful deposit of the first funds generated from newly implemented transit fees for vessels navigating the Strait of Hormuz. Deputy Parliament Speaker Hamidreza Hajibabaee confirmed that the revenue was received in cash or foreign currency, specifically Iranian rials, while denying reports that payments occurred via cryptocurrencies.

Industry sources indicate fees may reach $2 million per vessel, calculated at roughly $1 per barrel of crude cargo. The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Research and Self-Sufficiency Jihad Organization is responsible for charging these tolls. Hajibabaee asserted that the waterway is the rightful possession of Iran and warned that passage could be blocked if the United States continues its aggressive policies.

This escalation follows a naval blockade of Iranian ports maintained by the U.S. military since April 13. President Donald Trump has rejected the legality of these tolls, although he previously suggested a potential joint venture for securing the waterway.