The United States has warned shipping companies that they could face sanctions if they pay tolls to Iran for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
The US Office of Foreign Assets Control said in a statement that payments by American citizens and companies to Iranian government entities are generally prohibited. It added that foreign companies could also be at risk of sanctions if they engage in such transactions.
According to the organization, activities related to Iran's ports and shipping sector are already subject to numerous sanctions, so the risks for companies involved in this sector have increased.
On the other hand, Iran has claimed that it has begun collecting tolls from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, although it has not disclosed details about the amount or the method of collection.
US officials stated that such payments are not limited to cash and could include digital currencies, informal exchange systems, or other methods, all of which would also fall under sanctions.
The US Treasury further said that stricter measures are being implemented to curb Iran’s oil and petrochemical revenues, and new sanctions have been imposed on three Iranian foreign exchange institutions.
According to the United States Department of the Treasury, efforts will continue to restrict Iran’s financial activities and target networks attempting to evade sanctions.
Reports suggest that ongoing tensions between the US and Iran have affected maritime traffic in the Strait of Hormuz. Previously, around 3,000 ships passed through the waterway each month, but this number has now declined significantly.
This route is considered crucial for global energy and trade supply, as it is used to transport oil, food, medicines, and other goods.
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees has also warned that route disruptions and longer alternative paths are impacting the delivery of humanitarian aid and increasing costs.
According to the agency, in some regions, delivery times for aid supplies have increased by up to 25 days, worsening conditions for refugees and affected populations.
It is worth noting that despite ongoing tensions between the United States and Iran, limited ceasefire efforts and negotiations are still underway, though no final agreement has been reached so far.
