Iran Charges $2 Million to Guard Vital Oil Shipping Lane

Clear Facts

• Iranian lawmaker Alaeddin Boroujerdi confirmed the $2 million transit fee as a reflection of Iran’s strength.
• President Donald Trump warned that the U.S. will destroy Iranian power plants if the strait is not fully reopened within 48 hours.
• Maritime traffic is reportedly near collapse, with only 16 visible crossings recorded over the past seven days.

Iran is allegedly establishing a de facto safe passage system for vetted vessels.

These approved ships must pay significant tolls to avoid interference from the Revolutionary Guard.

“Collecting $2 million as transit fees from some vessels crossing the strait reflects Iran’s strength,” Boroujerdi said during a television program.

“Now, because war has costs, naturally we must do this and take transit fees from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz,” he added.

President Trump responded to the aggression with a clear ultimatum on social media.

He stated that the United States would target Iran’s primary infrastructure if threats to shipping continue.

“If Iran doesn’t FULLY OPEN, WITHOUT THREAT, the Strait of Hormuz, within 48 hours from this exact point in time, the United States of America will hit and obliterate their various POWER PLANTS, STARTING WITH THE BIGGEST ONE FIRST!” Trump said.

Iranian officials claim the waterway remains open to everyone except those they consider adversaries.

Meanwhile, several nations including China and India are reportedly in talks with Tehran regarding transit.

“The Strait of Hormuz is open to all except those who violate our soil,” Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated.

The strait typically handles 20 percent of the world’s liquefied natural gas trade.

This disruption has already forced shipping costs and oil prices higher across the globe.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.

Source Article