Iran Shifts Tactics: Demanding 'Service Fees' Instead of 'Tolls' Shortly After Ceasefire Agreement

Although the United States and Iran have dramatically signed a memorandum of understanding to end the war after 106 days, tensions have reignited over the issue of imposing tolls in the Strait of Hormuz, leading to assessments that negotiations on key issues are only just beginning.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated on the 15th (local time) that "the Strait of Hormuz is an artery of the global economy," and continued to ramp up pressure, saying, "It will be permanently opened for free upon the official signing on the 19th."

His plan is to fully restore freedom of navigation to the state it was in before the war.

President Trump also remarked, "There is a bit of a debate over that part," but added, "There are no tolls. I think there will be free navigation."

However, Iran's position is different.

The Iranian Foreign Ministry countered directly, stating, "It is not a toll, but we will impose a 'service fee' in exchange for environmental or safety services provided within the strait."

Iran is already taking independent steps to effectively collect transit fees, such as proposing a specific fee structure to the Omani government.

Under the current ceasefire agreement, Iran cannot collect any fees during the 60-day negotiation period ahead.

However, Iran has already begun preparations for the post-negotiation period by establishing a "Strait Management Authority" and announcing the issuance of "safe passage permits."

According to The New York Times, international law experts criticized the move, stating, "Imposing fees on a natural waterway that has long been free is clearly illegal under international law," and adding, "Calling it a 'service fee' does not make it legal."

Furthermore, they warn that if Iran's demands are accepted, it could set a dangerous precedent for other international waters, such as the South China Sea.

Reported by Lee Hyun-young | Video by Lee Da-in | Graphics by Lee Jung-ju | Produced by SBS Digital News
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.