U.S. energy corporation Chevron has stated that it does not accept Iran’s reported demand to impose fees on foreign vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
Chevron CEO Michael Wirth, speaking to Bloomberg TV, said such a mechanism would violate international maritime rules, adding that the company has no plans to engage in discussions on the issue. He noted that although rising incidents involving tankers and transit vessels in the region are a concern, Chevron’s position remains unchanged.
Currently, several Chevron-chartered vessels operate under contract arrangements, and decisions regarding safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz are primarily made by shipowners.
A similar stance has also been expressed by officials in the United Arab Emirates, who have called for ensuring free passage through the strait. Tehran, meanwhile, insists on its position regarding the introduction of transit fees.
Amid escalating regional tensions, volatility continues to be observed in global energy markets.
