Headline: Countries Strike Direct Deals with Iran for Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

Why this matters: Control of a key global energy route is shifting from international law to political alignment. This could reshape global trade and energy security.

Date: 7 April 2026

Tags: International, Energy, Business, Politics

Summary:

• Multiple countries negotiating directly with Iran to secure ship passage through Strait of Hormuz.

• Conflict disrupted maritime law, replacing it with diplomacy-based access agreements.

• Strait traffic dropped by 95% after closure following US-Israeli strikes.

• Iran operating “toll booth” system, escorting approved vessels through controlled corridors.

• Countries granted access include China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iraq, and others.

• Some nations reportedly paying fees, possibly up to $2m per transit.

• India, Malaysia, and Thailand secured passage through diplomatic agreements.

• Philippines gained access despite close ties with the United States.

• Hundreds of vessels remain stranded, with limited approvals for transit.

• Iran considering formal legislation to make toll system permanent.

What’s next: More countries may seek bilateral deals with Iran. The toll system could become a long-term feature of global shipping routes.