Energy executives and lobbyists are storming the White House to block a proposed $2.5 million-per-ship toll in the Strait of Hormuz. Industry giants warn that the secret deal could spark a global gas price explosion and give Iran unprecedented control over the world's most vital maritime chokepoint. Major oil company executives and industry consultants are actively lobbying the White House, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubioover concerns about the Trump administration’s ceasefire agreement with Iran, according to Politico.
The industry is strongly opposed to any part of the deal that would allow Iran to charge tolls on tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Reports cited in the article indicate the proposed fees could reach approximately $1 per barrel, or up to $2–2.5 million per ship. Oil representatives argue that these tolls would be passed directly to consumers, significantly driving up global oil and gasoline prices. They also warn that permitting Iran to impose such charges would set a dangerous precedent for other critical maritime chokepoints, including the Strait of Malacca and the Bosporus.
Additionally, the industry has raised concerns that making these payments could violate existing U.S. sanctions on Iran. The oil sector is calling the tolls issue one of the most problematic elements of the current truce terms. The report is based on discussions with multiple industry sources familiar with the lobbying efforts. No official White House comment on the specific meetings has been issued so far. (Source)
