Since the end of World War II the United States has maintained the freedom of the seas. Even our enemy’s ships can go wherever they like. If it were not for the US Navy the seas would be divided up into little fiefdoms. China, Russia and other countries like Iran would mine or patrol various areas, like the Straits of Hormuz and Taiwan and prevent commerce or demand payment to let it pass.
It isn’t unreasonable for those countries who benefit to ask for some form of payment. Without the US Saudi Arabia would likely find the Straits and the Red Sea impassible to oil tankers. This will happen once Iran gets the bomb, which is why Saudi Arabia encouraged the deposing of Assad in Syria. They need a pipeline to the Mediterranean and Assad said, “Sure. Just pay me and stop encouraging my dissidents.” SA said, no. They then tried to depose him and failed. Now they’re desperate.
Yup, you are correct.
Something like 60 or 70% of Egypt’s GDP comes from the canal. The Red Sea ports are the Saudi’s answer to the whole Hormuz mess back when WE escorted tankers through the straits because there would be no insurance for cargoes otherwise.
The Saudi’s long for a pipeline outlet to the Med.