The United Nations’ shipping agency warned Thursday that imposing a toll on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz would "set a dangerous precedent." This statement follows U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion of a potential U.S.-Iranian toll system for vessels traversing the critical waterway.
A spokesperson for the U.N.'s International Maritime Organization told Reuters that "there is no international agreement where tolls can be introduced for transiting international straits." The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial global energy choke point, carrying approximately 20 million barrels of oil daily and about one-fifth of global liquefied natural gas.
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis echoed these concerns, stating that an Iranian plan to charge ships for passage would be "completely unacceptable." He emphasized that the international community would not accept Iran establishing such a toll, especially as it was not in place before recent conflicts and should not be after.
President Trump had previously announced a temporary ceasefire with Iran, stating the U.S. would assist with traffic buildup in the Strait of Hormuz.