U.S warns shipping firms over Iran Strait of Hormuz 'toll' payments as sanctions threat escalates maritime standoff
The United States is warning shipping companies that they could face sanctions if they make payments to Iran in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions over control of one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.
The advisory, issued Friday by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, targets what U.S. officials describe as a growing “toll” system in which Iran has allegedly offered escorted or rerouted passage through the strait in exchange for payment. The Strait of Hormuz, located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, typically carries about one-fifth of global oil and natural gas shipments.
According to the warning, Iran has disrupted normal shipping through threats and attacks on vessels following heightened military conflict earlier this year. In response, Tehran has reportedly offered alternative escorted routes near its coastline while charging fees in some cases for safe transit.
U.S. officials said those payments could take many forms, including cash transfers, digital assets, barter arrangements, informal swaps, or other in-kind contributions such as charitable donations or payments made through diplomatic channels. The agency emphasized that sanctions risk applies regardless of how any payment is structured.
The United States has also taken maritime countermeasures, including restricting Iranian tanker movements, which officials say have reduced Iran’s oil export capacity and added pressure to its economy. U.S. military officials say dozens of commercial vessels have been redirected since heightened security operations began in the region.
The warning comes amid ongoing diplomatic friction between Washington and Tehran, including rejected proposals for a broader peace framework. U.S. leaders have expressed skepticism about Iran’s negotiating position, while talks involving regional mediators continue through indirect channels.
At the same time, the broader conflict has fueled global economic concerns, with disruptions in energy shipping contributing to higher fuel prices and supply strain in multiple markets.
Separately, Iran announced it carried out the execution of two individuals convicted of spying for Israel, according to Iranian judicial authorities. The men were accused of passing sensitive information to foreign intelligence services, including details tied to security and nuclear-related sites.
China’s envoy to the United Nations has called for de-escalation, urging a return to negotiations and warning that continued instability around the Strait of Hormuz could further damage the global economy. Beijing has also backed diplomatic mediation efforts involving regional partners.
The situation remains volatile, with military activity, sanctions pressure, and stalled diplomacy all converging on one of the world’s most strategically important shipping corridors.
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