Iran closed Hormuz, blocked transit, and then - started charging. But not everyone. Russia, as a "friendly nation," gets an exemption. So controlling the strait is not about security - it is about geopolitical loyalty.

Iran's ambassador in Moscow, Kazem Jalali, confirmed that Tehran has provided exemptions for certain countries, including Russia, when it comes to transit fees through the Strait of Hormuz. "At this moment we have provided exemptions for some countries. Our Ministry of Foreign Affairs is working to activate the exemptions for friendly countries, for example Russia," Jalali stated.

Tehran announced the fee plans after US and Israeli attacks, justifying the move with security costs in the strait. The strait is currently closed by Iran's decision and will remain blocked until the complete lifting of the American naval blockade.

First transit revenue already in the bank

The deputy speaker of Iran's parliament, Hamidreza Haji Babai, stated that Iran has for the first time earned revenue from Hormuz transit fees, with funds deposited in Iran's Central Bank. By late March, a draft law on the strait was being prepared, providing for payment in rials and a transit ban for the US, Israel, and countries supporting sanctions against Tehran.

US-Iran negotiations yielded no results. On April 8, both sides announced a two-week ceasefire, but Iran then rejected new talks, calling contacts with Washington "a waste of time." Does diplomacy even stand a chance when one side lays mines and the other charges fees?