Coalition of 60 nations opposes toll collection in the Strait of Hormuz; Iran hardens its stance

 

 

A coalition of 60 nations, led by the European Union, has come forward to oppose the imposition of tolls and fees on ships traversing international waterways. This global declaration aims to counter Iran's moves in the Strait of Hormuz. In addition to EU member states, countries such as Australia, Japan, the UK, Canada, and Singapore have pledged their support to this coalition. The EU's foreign policy chief stated that obstructing free passage through international straits and levying fees violates United Nations regulations.

However, Iran has rejected this collective demand. Iran maintains that the strait will remain closed until its demands are met. The country has reiterated conditions such as the lifting of economic sanctions and the release of frozen assets. This dispute in the Strait of Hormuz—a vital route for one-fifth of the world's oil trade—has triggered a severe fuel crisis and price hikes globally. Attacks involving the US and Israel, combined with the uncertainty surrounding Iran's conditions, are causing significant international concern.