Iran says ships may face Hormuz transit fees but US seeks toll-free passage

Iran has indicated that commercial ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz could soon face new charges for “full services” provided by Iran and Oman.

Speaking at a press conference, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said the strategic waterway remains a key security priority for Tehran.

“The Strait of Hormuz is very important for us, and we have adopted certain procedures according to international law in order to protect Iran’s national security and the Islamic Republic of Iran,” Baghaei said.

“Our goal is to pave the way for a secure passage in this waterway. We need a certain period of time to discuss with the other sides this important matter,” he added.

Baghaei confirmed that “fees” would apply for services connected to maintaining safe passage and protecting the environment in the region.

“It’s full services that will be offered in order to keep and maintain the environment. So many other services will be offered by Iran and Oman, and this will cost money. Accordingly, the fees will be there and this is clear,” he said.

Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance told CNBC that Washington expects the Strait of Hormuz to remain open without toll charges in the long term.

“Our expectation is that the strait is going to be opened in a toll-free way for the long term,” Vance said, adding that technical details would be addressed during future negotiations.