The Islamic regime announced that ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz would be required to pay fees for what it described as 'navigational services' and environmental protections, insisting the charges are not tolls. The statement comes as negotiations with the United States over the strategic waterway have largely stalled.

Security analysts argue that rebranding the payments does not change their legal character. Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, vessels are guaranteed the right of continuous and unimpeded transit through international straits, and coastal states are barred from charging for passage. Although Iran is not a party to the convention, critics say imposing such fees would still violate established international norms.

Tehran has also expanded its claims over nearby waters, publishing maps that extend its asserted management zone into areas bordering Oman and the United Arab Emirates. Reports indicate discussions between Iran and Oman about possible transit charges, while a major bank recently estimated that such fees could generate tens of billions of dollars annually if implemented.