-Friday World – March 20, 2026
The proposal was revealed by Iranian parliament member Somayeh Rafiee in an interview with the Iranian Students' News Agency (ISNA). She stated: “If the Strait of Hormuz is used as a safe passage for maritime trade, energy transport, or food security, then countries must pay tolls and taxes to the Islamic Republic of Iran.” She described it as a “security tax,” where Iran demands payment in exchange for ensuring the safety of the waterway.
→ Why is the Strait of Hormuz so critically important?
It is one of the world’s most vital energy chokepoints. On average, around 20 million barrels of crude oil and petroleum products pass through it every day—accounting for roughly 20–25% of global seaborne oil trade. The majority of oil and gas exports from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the UAE, Kuwait, and Qatar transit this route en route to Asia. Since the war began, Iran has tightened its control over the strait and started imposing special permissions and conditions on many vessels.
→ How will the toll tax generate $73 billion?
According to the proposal, if a 10% toll is imposed, the figure becomes easily achievable. Based on daily traffic of 20 million barrels and current Brent crude prices (above $100 per barrel), simple calculations show the number is realistic. Tehran University professor Fouad Ijadi explained that this toll system would help recover war damages and provide Iran with an annual income stream of $73 billion—significantly reducing the impact of U.S. and European sanctions.
→ Even during war, Iran’s oil exports continue — earning $140 million daily!
Kharg Island — the hub for 90% of Iran’s oil exports — saw U.S. strikes on military sites, but oil facilities were deliberately spared. The reason is clear: if Iran’s oil supply were halted, the global energy crisis would become far more severe. Data from analytics firms Kepler and TankerTrackers shows that since the war started, Iran has exported between 12 and 13.7 million barrels, equivalent to 1–1.5 million barrels per day. This generates roughly $140 million (about ₹1,200 crore) every single day for Iran.
→ Iranian tankers pass freely — foreign vessels are stopped or attacked!
Iranian tankers sail through the strait without interruption, while vessels from other countries are frequently detained, delayed, or even targeted. The U.S. has avoided blocking Iranian oil exports because doing so could push oil prices to $150–200 per barrel — a level that would devastate the global economy.
→ Global implications and rising tensions
This move could spark major international controversy. Similar toll systems might eventually appear at other key passages like the Suez Canal or Panama Canal. Persian Gulf nations are strongly opposing the plan and have issued warnings of possible military responses. Iran, however, insists that in a wartime situation, charging for providing security is entirely justified.
→ A major challenge for countries like India
For large oil-importing nations like India, this development poses a serious threat. A significant portion of India’s crude oil arrives via this very route. Rising oil prices, increased shipping costs, and the need to explore alternative (and often more expensive) pathways will create economic pressure.
→ Conclusion: War has become economic warfare too
The Strait of Hormuz is no longer just an energy corridor — it has evolved into a powerful economic and geopolitical weapon in Iran’s hands. If the toll system is implemented, it could establish entirely new rules in the global energy market. Energy-dependent countries may eventually have no choice but to accept Iran’s terms. This clearly demonstrates that modern conflict is not only military — it is also deeply economic. Through the “Golden Gate” of Hormuz, Iran is successfully circumventing American sanctions.
Sajjadali Nayani ✍
Friday World – March 20, 2026
