Sources: Oman Proposes Joint Toll with Iran for Strait of Hormuz, U.S. Opposes

On June 30, The New York Times reported that several informed officials and diplomats revealed that Oman has submitted a formal proposal to the United States and Western allies to jointly charge a toll on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, aimed at supporting the safety and management of the waterway. The proposal reportedly draws on operational models from the Strait of Malacca and the Singapore Strait. Regional diplomats indicated that the fees would be voluntary, but Iranian officials claimed that payment would be mandatory. Currently, the U.S. has received Oman's proposal and expressed concerns about the arrangement, stating it will continue consultations with Oman. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio previously stated that the U.S. opposes any form of charges for navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, including fees, tolls, or donations, arguing that the pre-war status of free navigation should be restored. The report notes that future management arrangements for the Strait of Hormuz remain a significant topic in U.S.-Iran peace negotiations. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi stated that Iran will soon initiate talks with Oman to discuss matters including the fee mechanism and route adjustments.