Tehran: Iran has permitted commercial vessels from India, China, Iraq and Qatar to transit the Strait of Hormuz despite restrictions on shipping through the strategic waterway, Iranian lawmaker Amir Hayat Moghadam said.
Moghadam, vice-chairman of an Iranian parliamentary committee, said the exemption was partly aimed at facilitating supplies of essential medicines and medical equipment to India. The move also sought to recognise China’s diplomatic support and strengthen ties with neighbouring countries, he added.
While vessels from India and China will have to pay transit charges, Qatari ships have been exempted from the fees.
Ships seeking passage must obtain prior approval by submitting details of their identity, cargo and destination, Moghadam said.
