Iran has officially denied charging any toll tax from Indian tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, made the statement on Monday, April 13, 2026, during a media briefing at the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi. He said Indian tankers that have transited the strait so far did not pay any toll to Iran. The ambassador invited the Indian government to confirm that no charges were collected.
This clarification comes amid growing international tension after reports suggested Iran was planning to impose a toll of around $1 per barrel or even up to $2 million per tanker for safe passage. US President Donald Trump had strongly warned against any such payments and threatened to block vessels that pay tolls to Iran.
India has also repeatedly denied paying any toll or holding talks with Iran on this issue. The Indian government has maintained that the Strait of Hormuz is an international waterway where freedom of navigation must be respected under international law.
The Strait of Hormuz is extremely important for India, as it carries a large portion of the country’s crude oil and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) imports. Several Indian-flagged LPG tankers have safely passed through the strait since the recent conflict began.
Analysts say Iran’s denial regarding Indian tankers may be aimed at maintaining friendly relations with India. However, the broader debate over toll collection continues, as it could affect global oil prices and shipping costs if enforced on other countries.
