Iran collects first Hormuz tolls as Strait stays shut under US blockade

Iran has begun collecting transit tolls from ships in the Strait of Hormuz while refusing to reopen the key waterway as long as a US naval blockade remains in place, deepening a standoff that continues to disrupt global shipping and push up oil prices.

Iranian authorities confirmed they have received their first revenue from the newly imposed tolls, even as the strait remains effectively closed. The waterway, which previously carried about one-fifth of global oil and gas supplies, has seen traffic fall sharply from around 130 vessels a day to only a handful.

Tehran has also seized two foreign cargo ships and fired on a third vessel. The seized ships, identified as the Liberia-flagged Epaminondas and Panama-flagged MSC Francesca, were accused of violating transit rules and tampering with navigation systems. Both vessels were reportedly headed to ports in Gujarat, Sri Lanka, and Jeddah. All crew members are said to be safe, with talks ongoing between shipping firms and Iranian authorities.

Iranian officials said the strait will not reopen while the blockade continues. Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said reopening is not possible under what he described as a violation of the ceasefire.

The United States has redirected more than 30 ships as part of its blockade, and has not set a deadline for negotiations. Analysts cited by officials say it could take months to clear the strait of mines, complicating any quick resolution.

Oil markets have reacted sharply, with global benchmark prices remaining above $100 per barrel. The crisis has stalled diplomatic efforts, with both sides using economic pressure while peace talks remain deadlocked.