Iran has announced a waiver of transit fees for “friendly” countries using the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by RIA Novosti.
In an interview, Iran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, said that Tehran has decided to extend this special privilege to a select group of nations. While he did not specify how the policy might evolve in the future, he emphasized that, for now, friendly states will be able to use the waterway without facing additional costs or restrictions.
Jalali added that Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently overseeing the list of countries eligible for the exemption, as well as the scope of benefits. He cited Russia as an example, noting that efforts are underway to ensure Russian commercial and other vessels can take advantage of the fee waiver.
The move comes amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and strained relations between Iran and the United States. Analysts view the decision as a significant geopolitical signal, particularly given the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, which serves as a key route for a substantial portion of global oil trade.
Iran has historically leveraged its influence over the waterway to assert its role in global energy markets, including through potential control measures or fee impositions. In the current context of economic sanctions and international pressure, the waiver is seen as a counter-strategy aimed at strengthening alliances and mitigating the impact of those sanctions.
Experts warn that this unilateral decision could raise concerns among Western nations, as it suggests a more assertive Iranian stance over the strait. By determining which countries must pay transit fees and which are exempt, Iran appears to be reinforcing its sovereignty and strategic dominance over one of the world’s most critical maritime corridors.
The international community will now be watching closely to see how Iran’s policy evolves, particularly regarding nations that fall outside its circle of allies.
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