Iran Advances Proposal for Transit Fees on Hormuz Strait Ships

Iran's Environmental Protection Organization's International Affairs Center submitted a draft system to the government to collect environmental service fees from ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The center clarified that these fees would be set based on precise criteria, including vessel type, cargo nature, its record, and projected environmental risks. Justifying the legal basis, the center affirmed the system relies on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and relevant treaties, which govern the "innocent passage" principle. It emphasized that principle violation, especially threatening the coastal state's health, security, and environment, grants Iran the right to intervene and take legal action to protect its interests, including collecting service fees or compensating for environmental and health damages. A representative stated, "Sustainable maritime navigation requires specific actions and cost payment. Hormuz Strait's security is Iran's responsibility, and will remain so." The statement also included a firm message to foreign nations, stressing, "Aggressive countries from outside the region have no place or historical/geographical roots here; they must depart." Regarding implementation, the center noted the proposed system currently focuses on the "essence of the matter" and covering environmental protection and navigation security costs, deferring payment details to relevant authorities later.