The United States has warned shipping companies that they could face sanctions if they pay Iran to pass safely through the Strait of Hormuz. This warning comes after reports that Iran is asking for payments in exchange for safe passage. According to the US Treasury, these payments can be made in different ways, including cash, digital money, trade deals, or even donations to Iranian organizations. Some of these include charities or government-linked groups. The US says that even if the payments are made as “charitable donations,” they are still risky and could lead to penalties. The warning applies to both US and non-US companies. Officials stressed that any kind of payment or agreement with Iran for safe passage could result in sanctions, as tensions in the region continue.