Shipping Industry Urges UN to Block Hormuz Transit Tolls

Eight major shipping industry associations, including the World Shipping Council and the International Chamber of Shipping, have called on the United Nations and the International Maritime Organization to oppose compulsory transit tolls in the Strait of Hormuz. In a joint letter dated August 3, the groups warned that such fees would undermine international legal frameworks and create a dangerous precedent for other global maritime choke points.

The Government of Iran threatened to impose permanent transit fees and mandatory insurance following U.S. and Israeli strikes that began in February 2026. While Oman has expressed opposition to these mandatory charges and the United States has resisted the attempts, the industry remains concerned about the stability of the corridor.

Despite the tension, reports indicate that the United States, Iran, and Oman are nearing a 60-day agreement. This deal would allow commercial shipping to pass through the strait without the imposition of tolls or fees.