Iran Strengthens Control Over Strait of Hormuz

The Iranian authorities have effectively taken control of the Strait of Hormuz. This strategically significant waterway has seen the establishment of checkpoint centers, the introduction of vessel inspection procedures, and the implementation of special diplomatic protocols. In certain situations, a special fee is required from cargo ships to ensure navigation safety.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) is at the center of a new multi-tiered transit system. This mechanism gives preference to vessels associated with Iran's allied countries, particularly those connected to Russia and China. The passage of vehicles belonging to other states is often conditioned on separate intergovernmental agreements or additional payments.

Vessels that do not benefit from state-level agreements are required to pay the Iranian side over $150,000 for safe passage. Senior Iranian officials have confirmed the reality of security and navigation fee collection, adding that the rates are determined by the type of cargo being transported and do not apply uniformly to all countries.

This information is based on data provided by representatives of the European and Asian maritime sectors, as well as officials from Iran and Iraq.