Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Iran has heavily restricted movement through the Strait of Hormuz, making it difficult for many ships to pass. However, in a recent announcement, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim revealed that Malaysia has secured approval from Iran, allowing Malaysian vessels to transit the strait safely.
Iran assures safe transit for Malaysia without charges
According to New Straits Times, Iranian Ambassador, Valiollah Mohammadi Nasrabadi said Malaysian ships have been given safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz without any charges.
He said it is no problem for Malaysia ships to pass as Malaysia is a friendly country, and friendly countries can use the strait.
“Of course Malaysian ships are free to pass. We will not charge,” he added.
Multiple international reports indicated that the Iranian military has effectively established what can be referred to as a “toll booth” system, with ships being asked to pay up to USD2 million (approximately RM8 million) for safe passage.
“Now, because war has costs, naturally, we must do this and take transit fees from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz,” Iranian lawmaker Alaeddin Boroujerdi said.
Iran has announced that the Strait of Hormuz remains open to all “non-hostile” vessels, excluding the US and its allies. So far, ships from Malaysia, China, Egypt, South Korea, and India have been allowed to pass through after negotiations with what Iran calls “friendly” countries.
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