Trump can't stop Pakistan, china and Russia in strait of Hormuz

TEHRAN — Maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz is seeing a significant shift as the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) enforces a new "assigned shipping corridor" and a mandatory toll system for vessels traversing the strategic waterway.

Over the past 36 hours, approximately 15 to 20 vessels successfully crossed the strait using the IRGC-managed route. This development follows Tehran’s recent announcement of a "de facto toll booth" regime, where ships are required to obtain prior permission and pay transit fees to ensure safe passage.

Friendly Nations Lead the Way

The majority of the vessels utilizing the new corridor belong to nations currently maintaining stable diplomatic or economic ties with Iran, including China, Russia, Pakistan, and domestic Iranian carriers.

Industry reports indicate that the IRGC is prioritizing passage for "non-hostile" nations. These vessels are reportedly paying tolls in alternative currencies—including the Chinese yuan and various cryptocurrencies—to bypass international sanctions. Fees are estimated to range from a per-barrel charge for tankers to flat-rate transit permits reaching up to $2 million per trip for larger cargo ships.

Strategic Control and International Tension

The new corridor, which maneuvers around Larak Island, represents a significant tightening of Iranian control over a waterway that handles roughly 20% of the world’s daily oil supply. While Iran claims the measures are necessary for "intelligent management" and security, the United States has condemned the tolls as illegal and a violation of international maritime law.

Despite the controversy, the recent batch of crossings suggests that some global shipping entities are choosing to comply with the new Iranian regulations to break the months-long maritime gridlock in the Gulf.

News Summary

Vessel Traffic: Between 15 and 20 ships crossed the Strait of Hormuz in the last 36 hours via a new IRGC-controlled corridor.

Key Participants: Most transiting ships are from China, Russia, Pakistan, or Iran.

New Toll System: Vessels are paying transit fees, often in yuan or crypto, to the IRGC to secure passage.

Strategic Shift: Iran is enforcing a new "traffic separation scheme" near Larak Island, effectively charging for access to international waters.

Global Impact: The move tightens Tehran's grip on a vital energy chokepoint, despite strong diplomatic protests from the U.S. and its allies.