Chinese Vessels Defy U.S. Blockade Over Iran Hormuz Fee

TL;DR: On April 14, 2026, Chinese ships sailed through the Strait of Hormuz despite U.S. warnings, while Iran began charging about $2 million for authorized passage. Iran has signed but not ratified the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, leaving the legal framework for the strait uncertain.

Although Iran claims the strait as part of its territorial waters, international law treats it as a transit passage for all vessels.

The United States has repeatedly warned that it could block ships it deems a threat to its interests.

Iran’s decision to levy a fee reflects its attempt to monetize control over the waterway.

In 2023, the United States intercepted a Chinese tanker alleging sanctions violations, heightening tensions.

Iran imposed a $2 million fee for each authorized passage through the strait.

Iran signed the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea but has not completed ratification, so the convention does not bind it domestically.

Chinese passage signals confidence that U.S. threats will not deter its energy shipments.

Iran’s fee may raise shipping costs and prompt diplomatic protests from importers.

Three major importers have already voiced concerns about the fee.

Because UNCLOS does not bind Iran, parties could challenge its legal basis for the fee, which rests on domestic law rather than international treaty, in forums such as the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea.

Observers will watch whether the U.S. responds with additional sanctions, whether other navies test the passage, and how international courts treat Iran’s fee regime.