Iran Waives Strait of Hormuz Passage Fees for 60 Days Under MoU

The Supreme National Security Council (SNSC) of Iran announced in a statement on Thursday night that applicants for passage through the Strait of Hormuz will not pay any fees for 60 days. The Persian Gulf Waterway Authority has been instructed to process and respond to requests with speed and priority in order to achieve the goals of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

Given the special conditions and the existence of some safety dangers on the passage route, and due to the need to ensure safe traffic and prevent maritime accidents, it is necessary for ships to pass on the route and time announced to them so that the possibility of traffic can gradually increase. The operational arrangements and technical details of the passage through the Strait of Hormuz will be announced by the Persian Gulf Waterway Authority.

Regarding other issues, including mine clearance, the necessary measures will be taken in accordance with paragraph 5 of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding. The statement did not specify which MoU is being referred to, but it is believed to be related to recent agreements between Iran and other regional states.

According to Mehr News, the decision aims to facilitate maritime traffic and enhance safety in the strategic waterway, which is a critical chokepoint for global oil shipments. The fee waiver is effective immediately for a period of 60 days.