April 24, 2026
Tehran/Moscow — Iran has announced a waiver of transit fees for Russia and several other “friendly nations” using the Strait of Hormuz, according to reports from Russian state media and regional outlets.
Iran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, confirmed the development, stating that the exemption applies to selected allied countries. However, he did not provide a full list of those benefiting from the measure. “We have granted concessions to some countries,” Jalali said, adding that Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to implement the policy for nations considered friendly, including Russia.
The move follows Tehran’s earlier decision to impose transit fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical maritime routes for global energy shipments. That decision came amid rising tensions involving the United States and Israel.
The selective waiver is being viewed as a geopolitical signal, highlighting Iran’s efforts to strengthen ties with allied nations while maintaining pressure on its adversaries. The Strait of Hormuz is a key chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes, making any policy changes there highly consequential for global trade and energy markets.
Analysts warn that such preferential treatment could alter shipping dynamics in the region and further deepen geopolitical divisions, particularly as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East.
