• Iran's lawmakers are considering tolls for vessels using the Strait of Hormuz.
• The proposed fees target shipping for energy and food security.
• Traffic in the strait has been significantly disrupted since recent conflicts.

Iranian lawmakers are proposing a draft bill to impose tolls and taxes on ships passing through the critical Strait of Hormuz, essential for global energy supplies. According to reports, this legislation aims to mandate payments to Iran for countries utilizing the strait for shipping, energy transport, and food security, signifying a new economic strategy amid heightened regional tensions, according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

As the conflict between the US and Israel against Iran escalates, Iranian officials have stated that maritime conditions in the strait will not return to pre-war levels. "We in parliament are pursuing a plan... if the Strait of Hormuz is used as a secure route," said Tehran lawmaker Somayeh Rafiei, emphasizing that countries must pay for the security provided by Iran, according to AA and Channel News Asia.

The conflict has led to significant disruptions in the vital shipping corridor, which typically facilitates around 20% of the world’s liquefied natural gas trade, with Iran recently allowing only select vessels deemed friendly to transit. The proposed toll structure aims to leverage Iran's strategic position in response to ongoing hostilities, as Iranian forces have engaged multiple vessels, citing security threats, according to Reuters and AA.