Iran Charges $2M for Safe Passage Through Hormuz | DISCUSS

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, Iranian officials and state media confirmed that the Islamic Republic is now demanding "transit fees" of up to $2 million per vessel for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Tehran’s Permanent Mission to the UN clarified that while the waterway remains "open," only "non-hostile vessels" that coordinate with Iranian authorities and pay the "sovereign fee" will be guaranteed safety.

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The "Cost of War" Toll

Iranian lawmaker Alaeddin Boroujerdi defended the move as a new "sovereign regime" over the world’s most vital oil chokepoint:

The $2 Million Fee: Payments are reportedly being sought on an ad-hoc basis, with some tankers already paying to avoid being targeted by Iranian anti-ship missiles.

Justification: "Because war has costs, naturally we must take transit fees," Boroujerdi stated, adding that the move reflects Iran's "authority" in the face of U.S.–Israeli aggression.

Selective Passage: Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated that the strait is "closed only to enemies," while "friendly nations" (likely referring to China and India) are encouraged to comply with the new security coordination.

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U.S. Dismisses "Alleged" Iranian Leadership

The announcement comes as the White House continues to question whether a functional government even exists in Tehran:

"Ghost" Leadership: Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated today that the U.S. has seen no proof that the new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is actually in control.

Succession Mystery: While Mojtaba was named leader on March 8, he has not appeared in public since being injured in the February 28 strikes that killed his father.

Trump's Ultimatum: President Trump has warned he will "unleash hell" on Iran’s remaining power plants if the strait is not fully reopened "without threat" immediately.

Global Economic Fallout (March 25, 2026)

Impact Category	Latest Status
Oil Prices	Brent crude remains volatile at $112–$120 per barrel.
Shipping Costs	Insurance premiums for the Gulf have spiked by 400% since early March.
International Law	India and other major consumers have rejected the fees, stating no nation can legally levy tolls on an international strait.

"International laws guarantee the right of freedom for navigation... no one can levy any fee for use of the channel." — Official Statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, March 24, 2026.