Iran has imposed a $1 per barrel fee for oil transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Financial Times. Iran Demands $1 Per Barrel of Oil Passing Through the Strait of Hormuz
Even amid a two-week ceasefire with the US and Israel, Iran continues to charge tolls for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz. According to the Financial Times, Tehran is demanding a $1 toll for every barrel of oil carried by tankers transiting the strait. However, empty vessels are allowed to pass freely, without payment.
Iran also insists on payments in cryptocurrency, which allows it to circumvent international financial restrictions. According to the Associated Press, Tehran, together with Oman, has established a fixed toll of $2 million per tanker. Iranian economist Abedini estimates that with this tariff, the country could earn approximately $64 billion annually.
A senior Iranian official told Al Jazeera that the strait would be fully reopened to international shipping only after all of Tehran's demands are met. These include compensation for damages to Iran, an end to attacks on Iranian-allied groups, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Lebanon.
As a reminder, since the start of the US and Israeli military campaign against Iran on February 28, the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately 20% of the world's oil supplies pass, has been effectively blocked. Iranian forces have been striking tankers and warships attempting to transit without permission. This blockade affects not only the Persian Gulf countries but also Asian countries dependent on Middle Eastern oil.
Thus, even the temporary ceasefire has failed to unblock this strategic artery. Iran is exploiting its position to gain economic benefits and exert pressure on the international community, tying shipping to the fulfillment of its political and military conditions. The talks in Islamabad, scheduled for April 10, are unlikely to quickly resolve these differences.
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