US threatens shipping firms with sanctions if they pay Iran tolls
Summary
The US government warned shipping companies they could face sanctions if they pay Iran for safe passage fees through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has reduced ship traffic there and demands toll payments, while the US enforces a naval blockade to pressure Iran by targeting its shipping revenue.Key Facts
- The US Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) issued a warning about paying Iran for passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
- US persons and companies are generally banned from paying Iranian government entities.
- Non-US companies may face sanctions if they pay Iran for tolls or use other indirect payment methods.
- Iran collects tolls from ships to allow navigation through the strait, claiming revenue goes to its Central Bank.
- The US has enforced a naval blockade on Iranian ports since April 13, stopping ships from arriving or leaving.
- Ship traffic through the strait has dropped from about 3,000 monthly to only a few ships daily.
- The blockade and tolls raise transport costs, affecting deliveries of oil, food, medicine, and aid.
- The UN warns higher transport costs impact emergency aid, especially for refugees and displaced people.
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