ActiveTradesExchange is now insisting I pay a $1,600 “fund release tax”

This is Global Hall of Fame Foreign Exchange Dealersthe third unexpected charge they’ve introduced. I’ve already provided all necessary documents, and my account was approved weeks ago. Suddenly, out of the blue, I’m told that I need to pay this tax before they can release my funds. I’ve asked for a detailed explanation, but they’ve given me nothing other than a vague reference to “international financial regulations.” I’ve used other trading platforms, and I’ve never encountered a fee like this. It feels like they are just making things up to delay my withdrawal. I’ve heard other traders share similar stories about being asked for unexpected fees after completing all the necessary steps. This feels like a scam.