Iran Moves To Monetise Hormuz — And Hold World To Ransom Iran has raised the stakes in its war diplomacy with a bold new demand: recognition of its control over the Strait of Hormuz — a move that could generate billions while tightening its grip on the global economy. The narrow waterway, through which roughly a fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas flows, has become Tehran’s most powerful weapon. Now, Iranian officials want to turn that leverage into a permanent economic and geopolitical tool. From Threat To Cash Machine For years, Iran threatened to shut the strait in the event of conflict. Few believed it would follow through — fewer still that it would work so effectively. But with shipping traffic now severely disrupted by drone and missile attacks, global energy markets have been thrown into turmoil. Oil prices have surged, supply chains have buckled, and governments worldwide are scrambling to secure fuel. Tehran appears to have taken note. Officials are now openly discussing a system that would charge vessels for safe passage — effectively turning Hormuz into a toll gate for global trade. Analysts say the potential revenue is staggering. With around 20 million barrels of oil typically passing through daily, even modest fees could bring in hundreds of millions of dollars each month — rivaling the income generated by Egypt’s Suez Canal. Legal Minefield — And Global Pushback The proposal, however, runs headlong into international law. Under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, the Strait of Hormuz is considered an international waterway, meaning ships have the right to pass freely without interference or charges. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already warned that any attempt to impose tolls would be “illegal” and “dangerous,” urging global powers to prepare a response. Despite that, Iran appears undeterred. Lawmakers are reportedly drafting legislation to formalise a new “regime” governing access to the strait, while officials insist only “non-hostile” vessels will be allowed safe transit. Shadow System Already Emerging Signs suggest Tehran may already be testing the waters. Shipping data indicates some tankers are using routes closer to Iran’s coastline, with reports that certain operators may have quietly paid for safe passage. While no companies have publicly confirmed such payments, industry insiders say a de facto system could already be taking shape — one driven by fear, uncertainty, and the sheer economic stakes involved. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has also introduced a registration system for approved vessels, tightening control over who can pass and under what conditions. A New Global Pressure Point For Iran, heavily constrained by sanctions, the strategy offers a low-cost way to offset economic pain while exerting maximum pressure on its adversaries. But for the rest of the world, it represents a dangerous escalation — one that risks turning a vital التجارة artery into a geopolitical chokehold. With negotiations stalled and military tensions still high, the battle over the Strait of Hormuz is fast becoming the defining front in a conflict that is now as much about economics as it is about war. SOURCE
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