Iran has begun charging certain vessels up to $2 million for transit through the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s key energy routes — a move that could heighten tensions in global markets and affect oil prices and supply logistics.

The announcement was made by Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a member of Iran’s parliamentary commission on national security and foreign policy. According to him, Tehran is effectively introducing a new regulatory regime in the strait, justifying it as necessary to finance military expenditures.

“Since war costs money, we must naturally charge ships”, he said, without specifying the implementation mechanism or which companies would be subject to the new measure.

The move comes amid a sharp escalation in the Middle East. Earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump warned Tehran of potential strikes on its energy infrastructure if shipping were restricted, while Iranian officials signaled readiness to retaliate against targets in the region.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a strategically vital artery of global trade: under normal conditions, about 20% of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies pass through it. Disruptions to navigation are already causing volatility in energy and financial markets.

 

Experts warn that the introduction of transit fees could set a precedent and further fragment international maritime logistics. Additional costs are already being reflected in shipping rates, as companies face “war risk” premiums and rising supply chain expenses.

Analysts view Tehran’s actions as part of a broader pressure strategy amid regional conflict, where control over energy routes is becoming a key instrument of influence. In the event of further escalation, this could affect not only the region but also the global economy, increasing inflationary pressures and instability in commodity markets.

#IRAN

01.04.2026 01:28