US warns shipping firms of sanctions for paying Iranian passage tolls

The U.S. government warned shipping companies of sanctions for paying Iranian transit tolls, emphasizing the risk of severe penalties for any company facilitating these transactions. OFAC clarified that U.S. persons and entities are prohibited from funding Iranian government bodies, while non-U.S. entities could face liability if their payments contribute to U.S. sanctions violations. The ongoing blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is disrupting maritime trade and driving up oil prices.