An Israeli media report has claimed that dozens of oil and liquefied natural gas tankers have been allowed to transit the strategic Strait of Hormuz after receiving approval from Iran, raising questions about whether the United States has accepted Iran's new toll payment system. Citing unnamed diplomatic and intelligence sources, the report alleges that some vessels were granted safe passage after payments were made to Iranian authorities or the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Details of the Alleged Arrangement
According to the report, many of the ships were carrying Qatari oil and LNG cargoes destined for major energy consumers in Asia, including India and China, as well as Europe. The claims have not been independently verified, and neither Washington nor Tehran has publicly confirmed the alleged arrangements.
Broader Implications
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical waterway through which about a fifth of the world's oil passes. Any disruption or unilateral toll system could have significant implications for global energy markets and maritime security. The report comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran over nuclear issues and regional influence.
Neither the US administration nor Iranian officials have commented on the report. Analysts caution that such unverified claims could be part of information warfare between the two countries. The alleged payments, if true, would represent a major shift in the balance of power in the region.
