In a new attempt to put the West under economic pressure, Iran is floating the idea of imposing "access fees" on undersea internet cables crossing the Strait of Hormuz, a move that could further strain global trade following the passage's blockage.
The plan was first laid out by Iran's news agency Tasnim, which is linked to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Questions have arisen over who exactly would have to pay such tariffs, and which kinds of services would be targeted.
From a logistical point of view, firms operating cables under the Strait would be forced to pay an "access fee" to Iran, while, from a regulatory perspective, it would require tech giants like Google, Meta, Microsoft and Amazon to comply with what were vaguely defined as "the laws of Iran".
Thirdly, the Islamic Republic could also take over cable maintenance in the Strait of Hormuz and charge more fees accordingly.
