GLOBAL trade relies heavily on a few critical maritime chokepoints that not only facilitate the movement of goods but also shape direction of international politics.

Among the most prominent are Suez Canal, Panama Canal and Strait of Hormuz. Egypt and Panama have successfully transformed their waterways into major sources of national revenue through structured toll systems. Can Iran similarly use Strait of Hormuz for economic gain and would such strategy be practical and sustainable? Suez and Panama Canals are artificial waterways, constructed through extensive engineering, investment and continuous maintenance. Egypt and Panama possess internationally recognized legal authority to impose transit fees on vessels passing through these canals. Egypt earns billions of dollars annually from Suez Canal alone, while Panama’s economy mainly depends on its canal toll system. Shipping companies willingly pay these fees because the routes significantly reduce travel time and fuel costs, ultimately making them economically beneficial. The success of these systems rests on legal legitimacy, transparency and stable administrative frameworks.

In contrast, the Strait of Hormuz is a genuine maritime passage that no single state has constructed. It connects Persian Gulf to Arabian Sea and ranks among the most vital global energy corridors.........

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