The head of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) has firmly stated that there is “no legal basis” for imposing any fees on ships transiting the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, even as tensions continue to disrupt global shipping routes.
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez made the remarks on Monday, rejecting proposals—reportedly backed by Iran—to introduce transit charges as part of a potential long-term resolution to the ongoing conflict in the region.
Shipping activity through the narrow waterway has been severely affected since late February, following military actions involving the United States and Israel targeting Iranian positions. In response, Iran has effectively sealed off the strait, sharply reducing oil and gas flows and pushing global energy prices higher. The US has also imposed a blockade on Iranian ports.
Dominguez emphasized that international law does not permit the imposition of “any tax, customs, or fees” on straits used for international navigation. He added that the reopening of the waterway must not be conditional on financial charges.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials signaled a tougher stance. Ebrahim Azizi, head of Iran’s parliamentary national security commission, said the country’s armed forces already control the strait and are seeking to block “hostile vessels.” Proposed legislation would formalize military oversight and require any financial proceeds from the strait to be paid in Iran’s national currency.
Dominguez also noted that a planned evacuation of around 20,000 seafarers stranded on vessels in the Gulf cannot proceed until the strait is fully secured. He confirmed ongoing communication with all regional stakeholders, including Iran.
The status of the Strait of Hormuz remains a central issue in negotiations between Washington and Tehran, despite a fragile ceasefire that has held since April 8.
Separately, discussions at the IMO this week are focusing on reviving stalled negotiations to decarbonize the global shipping industry—an initiative delayed last year after opposition from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and other oil-producing nations.
