WASHINGTON, 04 May. - (ANA) - The US has warned shipping companies they could face sanctions for making payments to Iran for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, as tensions over the vital waterway continue to drive a fragile stand-off with global economic consequences.

 

The US Treasury has cautioned that payments for safe passage, including cash, digital assets, or even charitable donations, could expose companies to penalties, warning that "these risks exist regardless of payment method".

 

At the centre of the crisis is the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has effectively restricted shipping as a defensive measure from US-Israeli aggression while offering limited passage in exchange for fees, a move the US has said could trigger sanctions.

 

Washington has responded with its own naval blockade of Iranian ports, preventing oil exports and further squeezing Tehran’s economy. US officials say dozens of commercial vessels have already been turned back as part of the operation.

 

The dual blockade has reduced shipping traffic through Hormuz to a fraction of normal levels, intensifying pressure on global energy markets and contributing to higher fuel prices worldwide.

 

Against this backdrop of escalating economic and military pressure, a senior Iranian military commander warned that renewed conflict with the US is "likely", underscoring fears that the standoff could tip back into open war.   - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/04 May 2026 - - -