Iran’s state-run Fars News Agency dropped a geopolitical bombshell on Monday, citing a “knowledgeable source” who claims a US-Iran memorandum of understanding includes Washington’s acceptance of Tehran’s right to collect fees for maritime services in the Strait of Hormuz. If true, it would mark a historic shift in the status of one of the world’s most strategically vital waterways, one that handles roughly 20% of global oil exports.
American officials, including President Trump and Vice President JD Vance, have publicly stated the agreement ensures long-term toll-free passage through the strait. Iran, meanwhile, is telling its domestic audience something quite different.
Tolls, tankers, and Tether
Reports indicate that Iran has already begun implementing informal tolls on ships transiting the strait, with charges ranging from $1 per barrel of oil to approximately $2 million per tanker. These tolls are reportedly being collected in Bitcoin, Tether (USDT), or Chinese yuan.
Iran has been under heavy international sanctions for years. Traditional banking rails are effectively closed to Tehran for most international commerce. Accepting BTC and USDT for maritime fees lets Iran collect revenue outside the reach of SWIFT and the US dollar-dominated financial system.
