Now, Iranian regime proposes charges on undersea internet cables in Hormuz

14/05/2026

Now, Iranian regime proposes charges on undersea internet cables in Hormuz

TEHRAN, May 14: An Iranian lawmaker has called for countries to pay annual fees for fiber-optic cables passing beneath the Strait of Hormuz, arguing that massive volumes of global financial transactions move through the undersea lines each day.

Hossein Ali Hajideligani, a member of Iran parliament’s presiding board, described the strategic waterway as a “God-given treasure” and said Iran should benefit financially from infrastructure crossing the strait. He also proposed imposing fees on ships transiting the key maritime route.

The Strait of Hormuz is a major artery for the global digital economy, with multiple submarine cables linking India and Southeast Asia to Europe through Gulf states and Egypt. Iranian officials and media linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps have recently highlighted the vulnerability of undersea cables in the region, raising concerns over potential threats to critical digital infrastructure.

Hajideligani also called for an end to negotiations with the United States, accusing Washington of using talks to gain time rather than recognize what he described as Iran’s “absolute right.”