Despite a two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran, the situation is still unclear regarding the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports, Iran is imposing a fee of $2 million on some ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. India has made its stand clear advocating free and safe passage for ships through this route. This issue remains an important point of contention in the ongoing US-Iran talks in Pakistan.
How much fees is Iran charging from ships passing through Hormuz?
Alauddin Borujerdi, a member of the Iranian Parliament’s National Security Committee, told ‘Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting’ (IRIB) that charging a transit fee of $2 million from some ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz shows Iran’s power. Since the attacks on Iran began on February 28, this route has been closed to ships carrying oil and gas.
Is Iran collecting fees from India also?
After US President Donald Trump announced a temporary ceasefire, India said it had not held any talks with Iran regarding the number of casualties. Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have also received reports about the imposition of toll on the Strait of Hormuz. India will continue to demand free and safe passage of ships through this route. We have made this position clear earlier also.” Even before the ceasefire, there were reports of Iran charging fees. However, Iran has allowed India—a friendly country—to use this route. In such a situation, the question arises: Did India pay any transit fee to Iran for allowing its ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz? The central government has refused to make any such payment to Iran.
India will continue to demand safe shipping: Jaiswal
On April 9, Randhir Jaiswal said, “There has been no discussion between us and Iran regarding payment in exchange for the passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz. If such a situation arises in the future, a decision on this matter will be taken at that time.” “We will continue to demand safe and unimpeded shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.” Eight Indian-flagged LPG tankers have passed through this route. India is heavily dependent on the Middle East for its oil and gas supplies, up to 90 percent of which is imported.
