Recent reports claim that Iran—under Mojtaba Khamenei—is charging up to $2 million per ship to allow passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
What is TRUE
- There are credible reports that Iran has:
- Demanded fees/tolls from some ships
- In some cases, charges are reported to be around $2 million per tanker
- Some ships have reportedly already paid to pass safely
- Payments may be taken in:
- Chinese yuan
- Cryptocurrency
This is happening amid the ongoing Iran–US conflict and blockade situation.
What is NOT fully confirmed
- There is NO verified evidence that:
- India-specific tankers are being singled out
- Mojtaba Khamenei personally “charging Indian ships” directly
The fees appear to be:
- Applied selectively
- Based on political alignment, risk, or negotiation, not nationality alone
Why Iran Is Doing This
Iran is using the strait as strategic leverage:
- The strait handles ~20% of global oil supply
- Iran has partially restricted access during the conflict
- Charging fees helps:
- Recover war-related costs
- Pressure global powers
Is It Legal?
According to international law:
- Natural straits like Hormuz must allow free passage
- Charging transit fees is highly controversial and likely illegal
🇮🇳 What About India?
- India is a major oil importer via Hormuz
- Some India-bound ships have:
- Passed with Iran’s permission
- Possibly negotiated safe passage
But:
- No official Indian confirmation of paying $2M per tanker
- Situation remains uncertain and evolving
Ground Reality Right Now
- Hundreds of ships are stuck near the strait
- Traffic is far below normal levels
- Only limited ships are allowed through under conditions
Final Conclusion
Yes — some ships are reportedly being charged up to $2 million
No — no confirmed proof that India specifically is being targeted
The situation is fluid, politically sensitive, and partly unverified
