Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei holds ‘positive’ view of China, ambassador says

Iran's ambassador to Beijing, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, stated at the World Peace Forum that Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, holds a "positive" view of relations with China, mirroring his late father's stance. Fazli indicated that while Iran will impose service fees for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, China may receive "special" treatment due to its status as a "friendly" nation. This suggests a continuation of strong bilateral ties and potentially preferential treatment for China in maritime passage fees. The ambassador's remarks were made over the weekend in Beijing.

Iran's ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli, announced that vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz will be subject to new service fees, despite US objections. He stated that China and other "friendly" countries will receive "special considerations" regarding these fees. Fazli explained these arrangements, developed in collaboration with Oman, are intended to guarantee passage security, supervise vessel traffic, and address environmental consequences. While an initial deal with the US stipulated free passage for commercial ships for 60 days, the ambassador indicated these new fees would not be considered a "toll." The US has previously stated that Iran will not be permitted to charge tolls or fees in any final agreement concerning the strait.