- By Chetna Shree
- Fri, 10 Apr 2026 04:15 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
US-Iran Ceasefire: Amid reports that Iran is charging some vessels $2 million to cross through the Strait of Hormuz, India has reiterated its stance of "free and safe navigation" through the narrow waterway.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial press briefing on the West Asia crisis, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "Yes, we have also seen some reports…we continue to call for free and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. We made this point in our statement yesterday as well, and continue to do so now as well."
Earlier, Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a member of Iran's parliamentary national security committee, told Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) that "collecting $2 million as transit fees from some vessels crossing the strait reflects Iran's strength".
What India Said?
The remarks come amid international media reports suggesting that Iran may seek to formalise its control over the Strait of Hormuz in its proposal to resolve the West Asia conflict.
However, India's foreign ministry said there has been 'absolutely no discussion' with Iran on any proposed toll or transit fee, reiterating that New Delhi does not pay such charges for India-flagged vessels transiting the narrow waterway.
"There has been no discussion on this point between us and Iran…we continue to call for free and safe navigation," Jaiswal added.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, connects the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea and handles nearly 20 per cent of global oil and LNG shipments.
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Uncertainty Over Transit Charges, Ship Movement Remains Restricted
According to international media reports, Iran may impose steep charges on merchant vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, though there is no official confirmation. Ship movement through the strait remains restricted despite a temporary ceasefire, with traffic still at only a fraction of pre-war levels.