Oman Proposes Collecting Passage Fees on Strait of Hormuz With Iran; U.S. Opposes on June 30

According to the New York Times, on June 30, Oman submitted a formal proposal to the United States and Western allies to jointly charge vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz with Iran to support maritime safety and operations, partly modeled on the Malacca Strait system.

The U.S. has received the proposal and expressed concerns, saying it opposes any fees, tolls, or contributions on Strait of Hormuz passage. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated the U.S. seeks to restore free navigation. Iran views the proposed fees as mandatory, while the model presented to allies suggests voluntary payment. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said Iran will soon begin negotiations with Oman on implementation details.