TEHRAN, Iran – Web Desk: Commercial vessels are reportedly paying up to $2 million to secure safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by the Financial Times, as regional conflict continues to disrupt global shipping routes.
Iran is said to be developing a new system to regulate maritime transit through the strategic waterway, which could remain in place even after the current conflict with the United States and Israel subsides.
Before the conflict, around 135 vessels passed daily through the Strait of Hormuz, a key artery for global oil and gas supplies. However, traffic has sharply declined, with only 116 ships recorded between March 1 and March 25.
The report noted that vessels successfully transiting the strait were primarily linked to China, India, and Gulf states, along with some sanctioned “dark fleet” tankers. Some ships reportedly paid up to $2 million to Iranian authorities to ensure safe passage.
Iranian lawmaker Alaaeddin Boroujerdi also stated on state television that ships passing through the waterway were being charged fees of up to $2 million.
According to risk and crisis management experts, vessels must undergo a clearance process involving government-to-government coordination via embassies. Ships are issued a code, which they transmit on international emergency frequency (VHF Channel 16) upon approaching the strait. Iranian authorities then verify documentation, cargo destination, and crew nationality.
Shipping data indicates that none of the vessels passing through the strait during the conflict were bound for the United States or Europe, with most shipments heading toward East Asia, and some toward East Africa and South America.
The report also cited sources suggesting that some third-country vessels used Pakistani flags to transit the route, potentially to facilitate passage amid geopolitical sensitivities.
However, the payment mechanism remains complex due to sanctions imposed on Iran and entities such as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) by the United States and European Union. Former U.S. Treasury official Claire McCleskey said Iran may be using covert financial networks to process such transactions.
Indian and Chinese firms declined to comment on the matter, while India’s foreign ministry stated that Iran was not officially demanding payment for safe passage. Western shipowners also said they were unaware of any formal payment system.
Analysts warn that prolonged disruption in the Strait of Hormuz could have far-reaching consequences for global energy markets, trade flows, and supply chain stability.
