Iran’s Parliament Security Committee has approved a new plan that proposes charging tolls on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a highly strategic global shipping route. The decision was confirmed on Monday (local time) and reported by Iranian state media, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB). The move comes at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia and signals Iran’s intent to increase its control over this crucial waterway.

According to IRIB, a member of Iran’s National Security Commission stated that the Strait of Hormuz Management Plan has now been formally cleared. The plan focuses on multiple areas such as strengthening security in the region, ensuring the safety of ships, protecting the environment, and setting up financial systems. One of the major highlights is the introduction of a toll system, which will be based on Iran’s local currency, the rial.

The plan also includes strict measures on which countries and vessels can pass through the Strait. It clearly bans American and Israeli ships from using the route. In addition, it restricts access to vessels from countries that have imposed unilateral sanctions on Iran. The proposal also reinforces Iran’s authority over the Strait and highlights the role of its armed forces in maintaining control. It further mentions cooperation with Oman to develop a proper legal framework governing the waterway.

These developments are taking place during an ongoing conflict in West Asia involving Iran and a coalition led by the United States and Israel. The conflict has now entered its second month. The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, with a large portion of global oil shipments passing through it. Iran’s move is being seen as an attempt to strengthen its position and influence over global energy supply routes.

On the same day, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent spoke about the situation in an interview with Fox News. He said that the United States plans to regain control over the Strait to ensure the free movement of ships. He acknowledged that, at present, some countries are making separate arrangements with Iran to allow their vessels to pass through.

“The market is well supplied and we are seeing more and more ships go through on a daily basis as individual countries cut deals with the Iranian regime for the time being. Over time, the US is going to retake control of the Straits and there will be freedom of navigation, whether it is through US escorts or a multinational escort,” he said.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Iran. He threatened to target key civilian energy facilities if Iran does not reopen the Strait of Hormuz. His statement included possible action against power plants, oil wells, and Kharg Island, which is a major oil export terminal.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, “Great progress has been made, but if for any reason a deal is not shortly reached, which it probably will be, and if the Hormuz Strait is not immediately 'Open for Business', we will conclude our lovely 'stay' in Iran by blowing up and completely obliterating all of their Electric Generating Plants, Oil Wells and Kharg Island.”

The situation remains tense as both sides continue to assert their positions. Iran’s plan to impose tolls and restrict access marks a significant shift in how the Strait could be managed in the future. At the same time, the US response indicates that the issue may escalate further if a resolution is not reached soon.