Iran Moves to Formalize Toll Plan in Strait of Hormuz
The New York Times • • world
Key Points:
- Iran’s Parliament is considering legislation to formalize toll fees for ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, asserting Tehran’s sovereignty and control over the vital waterway.
- Since the U.S.-Israeli attack on February 28, Iran has imposed ad hoc fees and effectively slowed traffic through the strait, which handles about one-fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas shipments.
- U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the toll plan as “illegal,” while the U.S. has threatened military strikes and pressured allies to escort commercial vessels through the strait.
- Iran’s actions, including attacks on ships and energy facilities, have heightened global fuel prices and increased tensions in the region, with President Trump warning of potential strikes on Iran’s power plants if the strait is not fully reopened.
- A recent report described an informal “toll booth” system requiring vessels to obtain Iranian clearance, and the formal legislation is expected to be debated soon in Iran’s Parliament.
