Iran's proposed $1 per barrel toll for oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz could impose severe economic burdens on Persian Gulf states, economists warn. The fee, potentially reaching $2 million per vessel, represents Tehran's latest leverage in negotiations to end the regional conflict.

While the closure of this critical waterway already disrupts global energy markets, the toll system would disproportionately impact oil-producing nations in the region. Economists suggest these countries may have little choice but to absorb the costs in the long term, as the strait handles roughly 20% of global oil shipments.

The United States and other world powers face limited economic incentives to oppose the toll, given that the financial burden would primarily fall on regional producers rather than global consumers. This dynamic could reshape energy pricing structures and trade relationships across the Middle East.