Iran calls on BRICS to resist sanctions, signals charges for Hormuz passage

Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has called on the BRICS group to defend nations against sanctions, monopoly, and coercive policies while also confirming plans to impose service charges on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

Currently in New Delhi for preparatory meetings ahead of the BRICS foreign ministers’ summit, Gharibabadi said Iran’s participation in the bloc was a strategic move aimed at strengthening multilateralism and promoting a fairer global order.

In a post on X, he said BRICS could fully play its “historical role” only if it became a platform for equal cooperation, mutual respect, and independent decision-making against sanctions and coercive policies.

He also said Iran’s geopolitical, energy, and transit capacities could help BRICS strengthen economic security, regional connectivity, and the voice of independent nations.

The upcoming summit comes as BRICS members seek a common position on the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Iran has reportedly urged India, which chairs BRICS in 2026, to help build consensus condemning US and Israeli actions.

Separately, Gharibabadi confirmed reports that Iran plans to charge a “service fee” for ships travelling through the Strait of Hormuz. He said the fees would likely cover navigation support and rescue operations.

He added that Iran would not permit all ships to pass freely through the strait and said 11 Indian vessels had already been allowed passage, with more approvals under consideration.

Gharibabadi said charges for transit through Hormuz would be imposed according to “transparency and international standards”.

Iranian military spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia also said Iran would not allow the transport of US weapons through the Strait of Hormuz into regional military bases.

The remarks come as tensions in the region continue to affect global energy markets and maritime trade routes.