EU rejects imposing fees on Strait of Hormuz: says It threatens international maritime order

CAIRO – 10 April 2026: The European Union has announced its categorical rejection of any proposals to impose transit fees or charges on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.

It reaffirmed its commitment to the principle of freedom of navigation and emphasized that the strait is an international waterway that must remain free from financial or political restrictions.

According to the EU, the imposition of such fees would constitute a direct threat to the established international maritime order.

Recent reports from Spain suggest that this firm European stance is a response to emerging proposals regarding transit fees for commercial vessels. These proposals have surfaced amidst escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, which continue to impact global shipping and energy markets.

The European Commission affirmed that international law explicitly guarantees the right of transit through international straits. The Commission noted that no financial restrictions should be placed on passing ships, as freedom of navigation is fundamental to the stability of global trade and the security of energy supplies.

As one of the world's most critical strategic waterways, the Strait of Hormuz facilitates a significant portion of global oil and gas exports from the Gulf. Consequently, any disruption or additional financial burden on transit acts as a direct catalyst for volatility in global energy prices.

European nations have warned that imposing transit fees could set a dangerous precedent, potentially triggering wider legal and geopolitical disputes.

At a time when Europe is actively working to avoid further strain on energy markets, the EU is advocating for international coordination to protect navigation rather than the implementation of financial measures that could exacerbate the current crisis.

This position reflects deep-seated European concerns regarding the repercussions of the Gulf crisis. Given that European energy security is inextricably linked to the stability of traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, the EU has made it clear that the freedom of international navigation remains a non-negotiable red line in its regional policy.