Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL) said that three of its ships, Sohar LNG (Panama-flagged), Green Sanvi, and Green Asha (both Indian-flagged), passed through the Strait of Hormuz in April without paying Iran’s requested transit fees.
The company said it was following international maritime law and does not plan to pay these fees in the future. MOL emphasised that the safety of its crew, ships, and cargo is its top priority and thanked all parties involved for ensuring safe passage.
The transits happened amid rising tensions. Iran had tried to charge fees of up to $2 million per ship and required clearance, even during a fragile ceasefire with the US. Idemitsu Kosan also said its tanker, Idemitsu Maru, passed through the strait without paying.
The US Treasury warned that paying Iran’s tolls could trigger sanctions, discouraging shipping companies from complying with Tehran’s demands. Ship traffic through the strait is still very limited, about 5% of pre-war levels, with many ships taking other routes or avoiding it entirely.
MOL’s decision challenges Iran’s attempt to profit from the waterway and supports international efforts to keep it open for free navigation. Analysts say that while some ships have paid fees, the Strait of Hormuz remains a key point of tension, especially after the May 7–8 US-Iran naval clashes and ongoing regional instability.
