Iran has announced the waiver of transit fees for ships from countries it considers 'friendly' when passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The decision was reported by Russia’s state news agency RIA Novosti on April 24, 2026. Iranian Ambassador to Moscow Kazem Jalali stated that the exemption currently applies to certain nations and highlighted that the future of this policy remains uncertain.

According to Jalali, Iran’s Foreign Ministry is presently ensuring that these exceptional privileges are extended to friendly countries such as Russia. The move reflects Tehran’s effort to strengthen ties with selected partners amid ongoing regional and global tensions.

The report did not specify how long the waiver will remain in effect or which other nations are included in the 'friendly' category.