Iran to Impose “Security Fees” on Friendly Ships Passing Strait of Hormuz, Linking Fees to War Reparations

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JUST IN: Senior Official Tells Al Jazeera Tehran Will Allow Selective Passage for Certain Countries in Exchange for Payments, Framing Fees as Mechanism for Compensation

Reflecto News – A senior Iranian official has told Al Jazeera that Iran will permit ships from “some friendly countries” to transit the Strait of Hormuz provided they pay security fees. The official explicitly linked these fees to Iran’s broader demand for war reparations, describing the payments as a way to obtain compensation for damages caused by the ongoing US-Israeli military campaign.

This announcement formalizes a selective “toll booth” approach that Iran has been implementing since mid-March 2026, rather than maintaining a complete closure of the critical waterway.

Details of Iran’s Position

According to the Al Jazeera interview:

• Ships from friendly nations (reportedly including China, Russia, India, Pakistan, and others not aligned with the US-Israeli actions) will be allowed to pass after declaring and paying security fees.
• Fees have been reported in the range of up to $2 million per transit in some cases, though exact amounts may vary by vessel type, cargo, and bilateral relations.
• Iran views these fees as part of a “new legal regime” for the strait, intended to generate revenue that can be directed toward rebuilding infrastructure and covering losses from strikes on Iranian territory, military sites, and civilian areas.

The official framed the measure as both a security and economic necessity, arguing that Iran has the sovereign right to regulate navigation through the strait — which lies partly within Iranian territorial waters — and to charge for protection and passage services.

Selective Passage Already in Practice

Iran has maintained an effective blockade on vessels perceived as linked to the US, Israel, or their Gulf allies while granting exemptions or clearances to others:

• Iraqi crude shipments and certain Turkish-owned tankers (such as the recent Ocean Thunder) have been allowed through.
• Malaysian-bound cargoes and ships from non-hostile nations have also received selective approval.
• Approximately 12 ships remain stuck or under negotiation, while a small number of friendly or neutral vessels continue limited transits.

This policy has allowed some oil and LNG flows to continue — particularly to Asia — while exerting pressure on adversaries and generating potential revenue.

Link to War Reparations Demand

Iran has repeatedly conditioned any full reopening or long-term normalization of the strait on receiving war reparations. Tehran’s counter-proposals in mediated talks have included demands for:

• Formal recognition of its role in securing the waterway.
• Payment of compensation for damages sustained since late February 2026.
• Security guarantees against future attacks.

By channeling security fees toward reparations, Iran is effectively creating a de facto mechanism to extract compensation even without a formal peace agreement.

Reactions and Implications

• Gulf States: The GCC has strongly criticized the move, with the GCC Secretary-General accusing Iran of imposing unauthorized charges and describing it as an “existential threat” to regional stability and freedom of navigation.
• Global Markets: The selective fee system adds another layer of uncertainty and cost to energy shipments. While it has not fully halted trade, it contributes to elevated oil prices and logistical complications for importers.
• Diplomatic Context: The statement complicates ongoing backchannel efforts (including Pakistan-mediated proposals) that seek an immediate ceasefire and unrestricted reopening of the strait. It also clashes with US demands, including President Trump’s Tuesday deadline and threats of strikes on Iranian infrastructure.

Strategic Context

The Strait of Hormuz remains the world’s most vital energy chokepoint, accounting for roughly 20–30% of global seaborne oil and a significant share of LNG. Iran’s approach — partial access for payers combined with restrictions on adversaries — allows Tehran to maintain leverage while mitigating the full economic blow of a total shutdown.

Analysts note that this “toll regime” could become a long-term feature if no comprehensive deal is reached, potentially shifting costs onto global consumers and encouraging further diversification of energy routes.

What Happens Next?

Key developments to monitor include:

• Specific fee structures and which countries are classified as “friendly.”
• Responses from major importers (China, India, etc.) and shipping companies.
• Any escalation or retaliation if fees are resisted or if US-led efforts to force open the strait intensify.
• Progress in ceasefire talks and whether reparations demands can be bridged through mediation.

Reflecto News will continue tracking Iran’s maritime policy in the Strait of Hormuz, diplomatic reactions, and the broader impact on global energy security. The introduction of security fees tied to war reparations represents a significant evolution in Tehran’s strategy, blending military leverage with economic tools in the ongoing conflict.