Iran demands passage fee for Strait of Hormuz

Iran has announced the renewed closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all vessels that do not pay a passage fee to the Islamic Republic. This move formalizes a policy of economic control over the critical global oil chokepoint, escalating tensions over maritime freedom. The announcement directly contradicts recent statements from Iranian diplomats who denied a full blockade. The demand for payment establishes a new financial toll for transit, which is likely to provoke a sharp response from the United States and its allies.