Strait of Hormuz Fees Hit $2M Per Ship, As Iranian Minister Exposes Global Chokepoint Cash Grabs

The Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Araghchi has fired back at critics slamming the country’s new $2 million charge for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil chokepoint.

He said “Let me be absolutely clear,” he told the international community, highlighting how nations worldwide routinely impose hefty fees on key maritime routes.

“Egypt rakes in $200,000 to $700,000 per Suez Canal transit, with massive tankers and container ships often topping $1 million.

“Panama Canal fees hit $100,000 to $450,000, surging to $500,000 for larger Neopanamax vessels.

“Turkey charges for Bosphorus Strait passage, while Canada and the U.S. levy costs on the St. Lawrence Seaway.

For decades, he noted, Iran waived all fees for the Strait of Hormuz—despite sanctions, isolation, and endless criticism—keeping it free and open.

Abbas Araghchi added that:“After all this,” the minister challenged, “you still expect the world to accept that Iran is the villain?”