DST News: Iran’s ambassador to China has announced that Tehran plans to introduce new service fees for commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, while offering “special considerations” to China and other friendly countries.
Speaking at the World Peace Forum in Beijing, Ambassador Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli said the charges would cover maritime security, vessel supervision, and environmental protection rather than function as transit tolls. He emphasized that, as part of Iran’s territorial waters, the Strait of Hormuz requires Iran to ensure safe navigation.
The announcement comes after a temporary Iran-US agreement guaranteeing free commercial passage through the strategic waterway for 60 days. However, Washington has insisted that any permanent deal must prohibit Iran from imposing transit charges.
Fazli said Iran is working closely with Oman to establish a new management framework for the strait. A joint Iran-Oman committee has already been formed to oversee future governance of the vital shipping lane.
Handling nearly 20 percent of global oil and liquefied natural gas trade during peacetime, the Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most strategically important waterways. Iran’s latest proposal signals its intention to play a greater role in managing maritime traffic while strengthening ties with key partners such as China.
