Iran to Levy Tolls on Ships from 'Hostile' Countries in Strait of Hormuz

Iran intends to impose tolls on ships originating from 'hostile' countries that pass through the Strait of Hormuz. This measure is intended as compensation for damages incurred due to sanctions and strikes attributed to the US and Israel, according to Ebrahim Azizi, the head of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security and Foreign Policy Committee.

Speaking to RT on Sunday, Azizi stated that the US should accept Tehran's terms, asserting that Washington needs a deal more than Iran does. He also noted that many Iranians are dissatisfied with the government's engagement in negotiations.

"When they need it, they should accept both the conditions and the prerequisites. If they don’t, we’ll do our work and go our own way. Nothing will change," Azizi added.

US President Donald Trump has not ruled out the possibility of resuming 'limited' strikes against Iran. This follows his administration's ordering of a naval blockade and threats to deny safe passage to ships that adhere to Tehran's fees and regulations for transiting the Strait of Hormuz.

Azizi explained that a draft bill currently being developed in the Iranian parliament would mandate that entities responsible for causing damage to Iran, and thus liable for compensation, would only be permitted to cross the Strait of Hormuz upon payment of these damages.

He specifically addressed countries that have frozen Iranian assets under US direction, stating, "You made a great mistake by blocking them. Now you also want to cross this waterway? That era is over."

Once enacted, the proposed law would obligate the government to establish a new system for managing and controlling the strait and the Persian Gulf, focusing on environmental safety, security, and services. Azizi indicated that any vessel seeking passage would be required to pay tolls determined by Iran's national interests, with specific fees and procedures to be finalized by the cabinet.

Tehran harbors deep skepticism regarding Washington's intentions, even after discussions concerning ceasefire preconditions. "We simply do not trust them," Azizi stated, questioning the reliability of a nation that he described as prioritizing "arrogance and colonialism."