Iran's threat to charge tolls for vessels in the Strait of Hormuz raises global concerns. This important maritime chokepoint, through which a fifth of the world's oil passes, could be used as political leverage, particularly exposing Asia's reliance on Middle East energy.

Iran’s threat to impose tolls on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz is stirring concern far beyond the Gulf, sharpening fears that one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints could be used as political leverage rather than governed by international rules. The concern is especially acute in Asia, which remains heavily reliant on Middle East energy supplies and exposed to any disruption in the waterway, through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil passes. Analysts warn that...