Iran collects first toll revenue from Hormuz strait shipping

Iran announced on April 23 that it has received its first revenue from tolls imposed on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz during its ongoing war with the United States and Israel, according to deputy parliament speaker Hamidreza Hajibabaei. The revenue was deposited into the Central Bank account, though details about the amount were not provided. The strategic waterway, which normally accounts for a fifth of the world's oil and gas flows, has become a major flashpoint since the conflict erupted on February 28, with Iran allowing only a trickle of vessels to pass through. Britain, France, and military planners from over 30 countries have held talks to protect navigation through the strait, with Paris and London stating they would lead a multinational mission as soon as conditions allow. The toll announcement comes amid heightened maritime confrontations in the region. On Wednesday, the Iranian Navy seized two cargo ships, the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and the Greek-flagged Epaminondas, marking the first ship seizures since the war began. Iran stated the vessels were captured for operating without required permits and for tampering with their navigation systems. The Greek-operated Epaminondas came under fire approximately 20 nautical miles northwest of Oman, with its bridge damaged by gunfire and rocket-propelled grenades, while MSC Francesca was attacked 8 nautical miles west of Iran. A third vessel, Euphoria, was also stopped after coming under fire. All crew members from both seized ships were reported safe, with the vessels subsequently boarded by Iranian forces. The tensions have been further complicated by U.S. actions. President Donald Trump extended the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran indefinitely, stating the deal would remain in place until warring parties reach an agreement. However, the U.S. Navy also seized an Iranian vessel attempting to bypass America's blockade, prompting Tehran to promise retaliation and accusing Washington of violating the ceasefire. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran would not negotiate "under the shadow of threat" or under a U.S. naval blockade. The Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy has warned that any disruption to order and safety in the strait would be treated as a "red line."