Iran’s First VP on Hormuz fees: Guests should cover costs if they stay longer

Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref has suggested that vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz should be required to pay a fee, arguing that many crossings have historically been free due to what he called Iran’s “hospitality”, Iran International writes.

“Many passages through the Strait of Hormuz have been free of charge thanks to the hospitality of the Iranian people. But when a guest's stay becomes prolonged, the guest should pay for their own expenses,” Aref said.

The remarks come amid heightened regional sensitivities over maritime security in the strategically vital waterway, through which a significant share of global oil shipments pass.

Aref also addressed domestic political dynamics, saying internal disagreements over negotiations with Washington should not escalate into broader disputes.

“Those who are unable to resolve even a dispute between two brothers, how can they provide solutions for resolving the historical and strategic differences between the Islamic Republic and the West?” he said.

By Aghakazim Guliyev