Key facts
- Iran announced new service fees for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
- Iran will offer special terms to allied nations for transit fees.
- The announcement was made by Iran's envoy to China.
- Four ships altered course in the Strait of Hormuz.
- Two ships reversed course, and two ships diverted.
- Ship-tracking firm Windward provided data on the course alterations.
Iran is implementing new service fees for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint. The announcement was made by Iran's envoy to China, who also indicated that "special" terms would be extended to nations considered allies. This move suggests a potential new revenue stream for Iran and a strategic play to influence maritime traffic through the strait. The announcement comes in the wake of an incident where four vessels reportedly altered their course within the Strait of Hormuz. Ship-tracking firm Windward reported that two of these ships reversed their direction, while the other two diverted from their original paths. The specific reasons for these course alterations were not detailed, but they highlight the sensitive nature of navigation in this region. The imposition of transit fees could impact global shipping costs and potentially lead to diplomatic discussions or challenges from international bodies and affected nations. Iran's offer of preferential treatment to allies could also reshape regional maritime alliances and trade routes.