The United States Treasury Department has warned international shipping companies that paying Iran for passage through the Strait of Hormuz could trigger severe American sanctions. The notice emphasized that American individuals and companies, including foreign entities they own or control, are broadly prohibited from conducting transactions with the Iranian government unless specifically authorized.

The warning follows reports that some tankers have paid up to two million dollars in tolls to Tehran since hostilities between the United States, Israel, and Iran escalated in late February. Iranian officials have indicated plans to charge one dollar per barrel of oil transported during the current ceasefire, requiring ships to submit cargo details in advance and pay the fees using digital currency.

Tensions remain high as Iran continues to close the strategic waterway in response to military strikes, while diplomatic talks have failed to produce a breakthrough. President Donald Trump has strongly criticized the toll plan and urged Iran to halt the effort immediately.