Iran has formally approved the imposition of service fees on vessels from “authorised” countries transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement was made by Iran’s National Security Commission spokesperson Ebrahim Rezaei, who explained that the charges would cover maritime, environmental, and logistical provisions.

The measure was introduced following the approval of Article 3 of the “Strategic Action to Ensure the Security and Progress of the Strait of Hormuz” plan. Rezaei confirmed that ships authorised to pass through the strait will now pay for services provided by Iran.

He detailed that the fees would apply to navigation, environmental protection, fuelling under certain conditions, insurance, safety, and other maritime services. Payment structures have been designed with flexible financial terms, and Iran will accept Rials or any other currency it chooses.

Iran’s Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, Mohsen Rezaei, stated that the Strait of Hormuz remains closed and will not reopen until the United States fulfils its commitments and changes its behaviour. He emphasised that American claims of the strait being open are false, and insisted that Washington must first correct its conduct.

He alleged that the United States has abandoned military options and is relying on economic pressure against Tehran. He claimed that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu assured President Donald Trump that an economic blockade would force Iran to surrender.

President Trump has repeatedly asserted US control over the waterway. He recently shared an image on Truth Social labelling the Strait of Hormuz as “NEW US Territory”, echoing a similar post from 18 August. Earlier, during a police academy event on Long Island on 14 August, Trump declared that he would soon designate the strait as US territory.

The confrontation over Hormuz has intensified, with Tehran warning of countermeasures against unauthorised tanker traffic. Shipping disruptions have already severely impacted international energy flows, raising concerns over global supply stability.

Trump has cautioned foreign governments against providing Tehran with “any type of lifeline”, insisting that Iran must agree to what Washington considers the right deal. Despite this, Iranian officials have signalled openness to negotiations while maintaining a firm stance on sovereignty.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for diplomatic engagement to resolve the crisis. He stressed that Tehran must aim to end the conflict while safeguarding national strength and dignity.

The Strait of Hormuz remains the focal point of escalating tensions. With Trump continuing to designate it as “NEW US Territory” and Tehran insisting it will remain closed until US policy shifts, the strategic transit route is at the centre of a worsening geopolitical standoff.

ANI