Iran committee approves Hormuz transit fees

On August 23, 2026, the Iran — National Security and Foreign Policy Committee of Iran's Iran — Islamic Consultative Assembly approved Article 3 of the 'Strategic Action Plan to Ensure the Security and Development of the Strait of Hormuz.' This provision authorizes Iran to charge fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz for services including navigation, environmental protection, insurance, safety, and refueling in special circumstances. Fees would be collected from ships of countries permitted to pass, payable in Iran — Iranian rials or another currency designated by Tehran. The committee spokesperson, Hasan Qashqavi, stated that the measure respects freedom of navigation and the rights of coastal states. The bill now moves to the full parliament for a vote, then to the Iran — Guardian Council for constitutional review, with the Iran — Expediency Discernment Council available to resolve disputes. The move comes amid the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran that began in February, during which Iran has asserted control over the strait, requiring permission and fees, a practice the United States rejects. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent declared an 'economic D-Day' against Iran on August 24, warning that enablers would become 'global pariahs.' Oman's foreign minister is scheduled to visit Iran on August 25 to discuss regulating ship passage. The United States, including President Donald Trump, insists on free navigation and claims control over the strait, which previously carried about one-fifth of global oil and LNG exports.