Iran Imposes $2M Transit Toll on Strait of Hormuz Shipping; Bahrain Pushes UN Authorization to Use Force

Iran is demanding ad hoc payments of up to $2 million per vessel for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, creating an informal toll on the world's most critical oil chokepoint. Some vessels have paid, though the mechanism and currency remain unclear. An Iranian lawmaker stated the fees reflect 'Iran's strength,' and parliament is moving to formalize transit charges. Separately, Bahrain introduced a UN Security Council resolution to authorize the use of force to reopen the strait. Iran told the UN that 'non-hostile' ships may transit if they coordinate with Tehran, but excludes US-linked vessels. Tanker traffic through the strait has dropped approximately 70%, with over 150 ships anchored outside. Global container congestion is worsening as the disruption ripples through ports worldwide.