Iran communications to the UN maritime authorities, as well as the experiences of vessels passing through the strait, indicate that Iran has established a system akin to a “toll booth”. Vessels must enter Iranian waters and undergo inspection by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. At least two vessels have already paid the toll.

Currently, entities wishing to ensure the safe passage of their vessels must submit detailed information—including cargo details, the shipowner, the destination and a full crew list—to intermediaries approved by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as designated by Lloyd’s List Intelligence. Approved vessels will be issued a code and escorted by an IRGC vessels.

According to local media reports, the Iranian parliament appears to be drafting a bill to formalize tolls for certain vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to Iranian lawmaker Mohammadreza Rezaei Kouchi, the Iranian Parliament is pursuing a plan to formally enshrine Iran’s sovereignty, control and oversight of the Strait of Hormuz in law, whilst creating a source of revenue through the collection of fees.