Iran is considering a system of transit fee exemptions for certain countries using the Strait of Hormuz, with Russia mentioned among the states that could benefit from a more favorable arrangement.
The announcement came from Iran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, who said Tehran is working on a framework that would allow special terms for what it describes as “friendly countries.” He indicated that Russia is one of the main examples under discussion, while also noting that no final decision has yet been made.
According to Jalali, Iran’s Foreign Ministry is developing the mechanism for these possible exemptions, but the proposal remains under review and has not yet been formally adopted.
The discussion comes at a time when Iran is tightening its oversight of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. Previous reports have suggested that vessels may be required to arrange transit payments in advance, including through alternative currencies.
At the same time, Tehran is also said to be examining broader legal changes that could make transit charges mandatory for all ships passing through the strategic waterway. Such a move would further raise the stakes in a region already shaped by heightened geopolitical tension.
With international shipping through the strait increasingly affected by political and security pressures, any new restrictions or preferential arrangements are likely to draw close attention from global energy markets and maritime operators.
