Iran Imposes Hormuz Shipping and Cable Fees as Peace Talks Stall

Iran is imposing a new maritime traffic management system and transit fees on the Strait of Hormuz while announcing plans to charge licensing fees on submarine internet cables through the waterway. The moves come amid a fragile ceasefire following a US-Israeli conflict with Iran that began on February 28, 2026, and stalled peace negotiations.

Ebrahim Azizi, head of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, announced a "professional mechanism" to regulate maritime traffic along a designated route, charging fees for specialized services. Only commercial vessels cooperating with Tehran will gain access; the route remains closed to operators of the US-led "freedom project." Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated the strait stays open to all vessels except those from countries at war with Iran, and said Tehran is consulting with Oman on joint management. The United States rejects Iranian control and tolls.

European countries have begun negotiating transit with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps navy, following agreements that allowed Chinese, Japanese, and Pakistani vessels to pass. The US military maintains a naval blockade on Iranian ports, which Donald Trump said costs Iran approximately $500 million per day. Trump warned Iran would face a "very bad time" if it taxes or closes the strait, dismissed Iran's peace proposal, and demanded removal of enriched uranium. Araghchi cited deep distrust as the primary obstacle to diplomacy.

Iran is also targeting submarine internet cables. Military spokesperson Ebrahim Zolfaghari announced plans to impose fees on cables carrying 15 to 20 percent of global internet and financial data traffic. Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon would need permits and pay licensing fees, while Iran claims exclusive repair rights. Experts warn IRGC sabotage could disrupt banking, military communications, and connectivity across the Gulf, India, and East Africa. Tech firms and Gulf nations are pursuing overland fiber routes through Iraq and Turkey.

Regionally, Israel and Lebanon extended their ceasefire by 45 days despite ongoing strikes. The UAE is accelerating an oil pipeline to bypass the strait. Brent crude futures jumped over 8 percent, and the European Union condemned Iran's toll plan as illegal and provocative.