Iran says Hormuz legislation leaves room for bilateral agreements

Yesterday 13:42

By: Azzat Manal

Iran says Hormuz legislation leaves room for bilateral agreements

Iranian lawmakers have clarified that a proposed law concerning the Strait of Hormuz does not specifically name Russia, China or any other country, while leaving open the possibility of granting certain benefits through bilateral agreements.

Aboulfazl Zohrevand, a member of Iran’s parliamentary National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, said the proposed legislation was designed as a general framework rather than a measure targeting specific countries or regions.

Speaking in response to questions from the Russian state news agency TASS, Zohrevand indicated that arrangements with Russia, China or other states could be negotiated separately through reciprocal agreements, depending on the circumstances.

The comments come as Iran considers new conditions for the possible reopening of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most significant maritime routes for energy shipments.

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has reportedly outlined demands that go beyond previous arrangements. Among the conditions cited are an end to what Tehran describes as U.S. threats, the cessation of military operations against Iran and its allies, the lifting of maritime restrictions and the withdrawal of foreign forces.

Tehran has also called for compensation for wartime damage, the removal of sanctions and the release of Iranian assets frozen abroad.

The proposed legislation has attracted particular attention because of the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. The waterway connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and is a major transit route for global oil and gas shipments. Any prolonged disruption could therefore have significant consequences for international energy markets and maritime trade.

Meanwhile, Iran and Oman have reportedly been discussing possible arrangements aimed at restoring navigation through the strait. According to Reuters, one proposal under consideration involves imposing transit fees on vessels using the waterway.

Iran has reportedly advocated fees ranging from 5% to 7%, while Oman has proposed a lower rate of around 3%. The discussions remain part of broader negotiations over the future of navigation through the strategic maritime corridor.

Iran’s latest statements suggest that any preferential arrangements for individual countries would not necessarily be written directly into the proposed Hormuz legislation. Instead, Tehran could use bilateral agreements to establish specific terms with individual partners.

The issue is being closely watched by international markets and governments because of the strait’s central role in global energy transportation. Developments concerning its reopening, navigation rules or potential transit fees could have implications well beyond the region.