Iran has denied reports that it is collecting cryptocurrency tolls for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, amid rising confusion over wartime payment policies.
State-linked outlet Fars News said claims that Tehran is already accepting Bitcoin or stablecoins for passage are inaccurate, countering speculation tied to recent geopolitical tensions.
The denial follows earlier reporting that Iran could charge around $1 per barrel for oil shipments through the strategic waterway, potentially generating tens of billions of dollars annually.
“Reports about Iran collecting tolls for the Strait of Hormuz in cryptocurrency are inaccurate,”
Fars News said.
Despite the denial, maritime security firm MARISKS warned that fraudulent messages have been sent to shipowners posing as Iranian authorities and demanding crypto payments for safe passage, contributing to heightened risks in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global chokepoint handling roughly one-fifth of oil and gas flows, meaning any shift toward alternative payment systems would have significant implications for energy markets and financial compliance.
Analysts note that while Iran has historically used stablecoins to bypass sanctions, officials appear to be signalling that any formal crypto-based toll regime has not yet been implemented, even as scammers exploit the uncertainty.