An international coalition of shipping trade associations has urged UN Secretary General António Guterres and IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez to reject proposed tolls in the Strait of Hormuz. They emphasize maintaining safety for seafarers and the importance of freedom of navigation for global supply chains, energy security, and economic stability.
Fraudulent messages demanding cryptocurrency payments for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz have emerged, targeting shipping companies. Greek maritime firm MARISKS warns that unknown actors, impersonating Iranian authorities, are soliciting Bitcoin or Tether for transit fees. These scams complicate navigation amid U.S. blockades and Iran’s fluctuating restrictions.
U.S. Senator Ron Wyden is investigating fuel smuggling linked to cartels between the U.S. and Mexico. He has contacted seven maritime shipping companies to understand their vetting processes. With stolen crude becoming a major revenue source for cartels, Wyden emphasizes the need for the industry to combat these illegal operations.
