Strait of Hormuz tolls explained: Can Iran really make ships pay? What the global law says
Mint·2h ago·Neutral
What Happened
Iran is reportedly charging tolls for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical energy shipping route carrying 20% of global oil. Under international law UNCLOS, countries can regulate passage within 12 nautical miles but must permit innocent transit. Iran and the US haven't ratified UNCLOS. Enforcement mechanisms are limited, though countries could redirect shipments, impose counter-sanctions, or seek UN Security Council intervention.
Key Entities
IranStrait of HormuzUnited StatesUNCLOSInternational Court of JusticeUN Security CouncilDonald TrumpIslamic Revolutionary Guard Corps