Tehran: Iran is developing a new system to allow ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, which it plans to maintain even after the ongoing war with the United States and Israel.
Before the war, approximately 135 vessels passed through the waterway daily.
However, traffic has almost halted since the conflict began. Between March 1 and March 25, only 116 ships successfully transited the strait.
According to the British newspaper Financial Times, most of the ships that managed to pass belonged to China, India, or Gulf countries. Some vessels were also from the so-called “dark fleet,” which face Western sanctions.
The report states that certain ships paid Iran up to $2 million for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian parliament member Alaeddin Boroujerdi confirmed on state television that every ship using this strategic route is now paying a fee of $2 million.
A consultant from a risk and crisis management company, Martin Kelly, told the Financial Times that the approval process involves government-to-government negotiations through embassies in relevant countries.
Once approved, the ship is given a code, which it broadcasts on the international emergency radio frequency VHF 16 when approaching the strait.
Iranian authorities then verify the vessel’s documents, cargo destination, and crew nationalities.
Shipping data shows that since the war started, none of the transiting ships were carrying cargo destined for the United States or Europe.
Most were heading to East Asia, with some going to East Africa and South America.
Instead of using traditional shipping lanes, the vessels have been routing through Iranian territorial waters.
Citing two Pakistani sources, the newspaper reported that some ships from third countries are using the Pakistani flag to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
One diplomat remarked that many shipping companies are changing their flags and registering under Pakistani registration.
Another source described these moves as “a goodwill gesture towards Trump.”
