Kazem Jalali, Iran's ambassador to Moscow, announced that Russia is among the 'friendly' countries exempt from transit fees for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz. This exemption is part of Iran's strategy to foster economic ties with select partners amid geopolitical tensions. Jalali's comments came after Iran confirmed it had received its first revenue from transit tolls, which are now credited to the central bank. The Iranian Parliament Deputy Speaker, Hamidreza Haji Babaei, acknowledged the revenue but did not disclose specifics about the vessels involved. Additionally, Iran's ambassador to India, Mohammed Fathali, stated that Indian-flagged ships would also be exempt from these fees, emphasizing the strong bilateral relations between Iran and India. However, Jalali indicated that further negotiations with the US would only progress if the US ceased its 'unlawful demands.'