Full Breakdown
Tensions Rise Over Shipping Fees in the Strait of Hormuz
4/13/2026, 9:31:41 PM
Iranian Claims on Shipping Tolls
Iran's ambassador to New Delhi, Mohammad Fathali, stated that Indian tankers transiting through the Strait of Hormuz have not paid any tolls to Iran. This assertion comes amid heightened tensions following U.S. President Donald Trump's announcement of a blockade on Iranian ports, which is set to take effect. Fathali emphasized the good relations between Iran and India, particularly during these challenging times, and noted that India has denied any payments to Iran for the passage of its vessels, which are crucial for transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and crude oil.
U.S. Position and International Reactions
The U.S. government has advised tankers against paying fees to Iran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump suggested that both the U.S. and Iran could impose fees as part of a "joint venture," but later cautioned that if Iran is indeed charging fees, they must cease immediately. This has raised concerns among maritime organizations regarding the legality of such tolls, with the International Maritime Organization's secretary general, Arsenio Dominguez, asserting that international law guarantees freedom of navigation through straits.
Industry Concerns and Safety Issues
The ongoing conflict has severely impacted shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, with reports indicating that only 15 vessels have successfully navigated the strait since the outbreak of hostilities, compared to an average of nearly 140 per day prior to the conflict. The International Association of Independent Tanker Owners (Intertanko) has advised its members against using the strait, citing safety concerns and the potential for attacks. Phillip Belcher, a representative from Intertanko, criticized the idea of imposing tolls as contrary to international laws governing free passage.
Criticism of Iranian Military Control
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which oversees much of Iran's economic activities, has been designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the EU. Critics argue that any tolls imposed by the IRGC would effectively mean paying a terrorist organization, further complicating the situation for shipping companies. The potential for Iran to demand transit fees, reportedly around $2 million per ship, has raised alarms about the future of maritime operations in the region.
Conflicting Reports and Future Implications
As negotiations between the U.S. and Iran remain inconclusive, the situation in the Strait of Hormuz continues to evolve. The blockade and the Iranian stance on tolls could lead to significant disruptions in global oil and gas supplies, affecting prices and availability worldwide. The longer the conflict persists, the greater the potential impact on fuel, electricity, food, and medicine prices globally.
Verbatim Quotes
- “In this difficult time, we have good relations. We believe Iran and India share common interests and a common fate,” — Mohammad Fathali, Iranian Ambassador to India
- “We do not believe the payment of tolls is the right way to go about this,” — Phillip Belcher, Intertanko Representative
- “International straits in accordance [with] international law are actually for the use of everyone and that's why no toll restrictions should be imposed," he said.” — Arsenio Dominguez, Secretary General of the International Maritime Organisation
- “ "Longer term, paying fees to travel through the Strait of Hormuz would be like paying fees to use the English Channel," he added.” — Erik Hanell, CEO of Stena Bulk
