Iran Implements Toll Booth System in Strait of Hormuz for Maritime Traffic
Iran's New Maritime Control in the Strait of Hormuz
A prominent shipping intelligence firm has reported that Iran has established a 'toll booth' system in the Strait of Hormuz, regulating the passage of vessels and charging fees for safe transit. According to a report from Lloyd's List, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has implemented this system, requiring ships to provide comprehensive documentation, secure clearance codes, and navigate through a single corridor under IRGC supervision. Since March 13, 26 vessels have successfully passed through the strait, adhering to a route sanctioned by the IRGC's toll system, with no vessels recorded using the standard route since March 15, as per data from Lloyd's List Intelligence.
Indian Ships Granted Passage
In a related development, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that vessels from friendly nations, including India, are now allowed to transit through the Strait of Hormuz. The Iranian Consulate General in Mumbai confirmed this, stating that the countries permitted include China, Russia, India, Iraq, and Pakistan. As of Thursday, at least five ships destined for India have successfully navigated the strait, with two vessels, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, expected to arrive by the week's end.
India's Shipping Ministry has dismissed claims of any toll or fee for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, labeling such assertions as unfounded. Special Secretary Rajesh Sinha emphasized that international conventions govern this crucial maritime route, ensuring freedom of navigation without any imposed charges. He stated, "As you would know, this is an international Strait, and as per international convention, it has the right of freedom of navigation and no levy fee can be imposed on it as per international regulation. Therefore, any fact presented by anyone, any argument made by anyone has no basis. It is baseless. This is a baseless argument."
Regulations for Non-Hostile Vessels
On March 25, the Iranian mission in New York announced that it would allow the passage of 'non-hostile vessels' through the Strait of Hormuz. They stated that these vessels, including those associated with other states, must not engage in or support any aggressive actions against Iran and must comply with established safety and security regulations. The Iranian Defence Council has also indicated that the transit of these vessels will require prior coordination with Iranian authorities.