Is Iran charging a toll to allow oil traffic through Hormuz? - Al Jazeera
Despite ongoing tensions and a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, oil exports from the Middle East have surged to levels exceeding pre-war figures. Analysts suggest that Gulf nations may be paying a 'toll' to Iran to ensure safe passage for their tankers.
Why it matters
If confirmed, this secret toll would represent a significant geopolitical shift, potentially funding Iranian operations while keeping global oil prices artificially high.
Crude exports bypassing Hormuz surged in September, yet oil prices remain high. Could a secret fee be the reason?
x whatsapp-stroke copylink google Add Al Jazeera on Google info Ships anchored off the coast of Khasab in Oman’s Musandam governorate, near the Strait of Hormuz, October 2, 2026 [AFP] By Usaid Siddiqui Published On 5 Oct 2026 5 Oct 2026 Middle East oil exports have climbed back above levels seen before the US-Israel war on Iran began in February, despite Tehran’s attempts to blockade the Strait of Hormuz and attack vessels.
Crude exports from the region exceeded pre-war levels on four days in the final week of September, reaching between 19.5 and 22.5 million barrels per day (bpd), according to provisional data from maritime tracking firm Kpler. Before the war, exports averaged about 18 million bpd.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in