Iran, Oman Review Hormuz Fees Amid Sovereignty Talks

Iran and Oman have agreed to study the costs associated with services provided in administering navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, while reaffirming their sovereign rights over the strategic waterway.

In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, both countries emphasized that they retain sovereignty over their territorial waters, even as discussions continue on the future management of maritime activities in the strait.

Tehran has repeatedly proposed introducing what it describes as maritime service fees for vessels passing through the strait, a plan that differs from traditional toll systems and has drawn strong opposition from the United States.

However, Oman’s foreign minister, speaking on X, clarified that both sides remain committed to ensuring “toll-free safe passage,” signaling ongoing differences in interpretation of the arrangement.

The two countries also agreed to continue negotiations through a joint working group between their foreign ministries. The group will focus on reaching consensus on the administration of navigation services in the Strait of Hormuz, including the nature of services to be provided and any associated costs, in line with international standards.

The statement followed high-level meetings in Muscat involving Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq alongside Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi.

Iran had earlier announced plans to introduce maritime service fees for vessels transiting the strait, stating that implementation would follow a 60-day grace period outlined in a memorandum of understanding with the United States.

The memorandum reportedly provides for Iran and Oman, along with other Gulf states, to discuss the future administration of the waterway and related maritime services.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes, with about 20 percent of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas passing through it. Tensions have periodically disrupted navigation in the area amid broader geopolitical disputes involving Iran, the United States and Israel.

While Iran previously imposed a temporary blockade during heightened tensions, authorities have since lifted restrictions following recent diplomatic understandings.

The latest discussions come amid continued international scrutiny, with US officials warning against any tolling system involving Oman and Iran, and raising the possibility of sanctions or other measures in response.