Tehran: Iran’s parliament has moved forward with legislation that will require ships passing through the strategic Strait of Hormuz to pay fees for a variety of services provided by Iranian authorities.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the National Security and Foreign Policy Committee of the Iranian Parliament approved Article 3 of a draft law aimed at enhancing the security of the Strait. This article includes provisions for collecting fees from ships allowed to transit the waterway in exchange for services such as navigation, environmental protection, refueling under specific conditions, insurance, and safety measures.

Hassan Qashqavi, the committee spokesman, detailed that these fees will be payable in Iranian rials or an alternative currency as determined by the Islamic Republic. He highlighted the importance of respecting the rights of countries that border the Strait of Hormuz. He also noted that while international law supports freedom of navigation, it also underscores the necessity of respecting the sovereignty and security of coastal states, as well as ensuring that their rights are not violated.