Over 60 Countries Adopt Resolution Against Iran Over Strait of Hormuz Fees

More than 60 countries have joined and drawn up a resolution against the charging of fees on vessels traveling through the world's straits. Analysts studying the matter said the resolution is seen as a step against Iran's efforts to impose fees on vessels using key sea routes. Western powers led the effort to draft the resolution. In addition to EU countries, 33 countries including the United Kingdom and Australia supported the EU-led resolution. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said international shipping routes must not be allowed to become tools for financial gain or political purposes. "International shipping must be open to all, not only to those who pay," she said. The resolution also contains stern warnings against illegal fees that obstruct lawful navigation through international straits and against discriminatory practices. The resolution comes at a time when Iran is seeking control of the Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, and is obstructing the movement of vessels traveling through the area. Iran has closed the strategically important strait in response to what it describes as an illegal war launched against it by the United States and the Jews. Because of the disruption to the strait, through which one-fifth of the world's oil and gas is exported, there have been major effects on global energy security and shipping costs. A senior commander of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said the Strait of Hormuz has been closed and is under the full control of Iranian forces. The IRGC also said the situation will remain until Iran's legal conditions are met. In addition, an IRGC official said routes established in the strait without Iran's permission will be closed very soon. Iran's senior national security adviser Mohsen Rezaei said America's response to the conditions proposed for reopening the strait is incomplete. These conditions include stopping the war and lifting the naval blockade. In addition, releasing seized Iranian assets is also an important condition. Although diplomatic efforts to reopen the strait are ongoing, major differences of opinion remain between Iran and America.