Iran, Oman to study Strait of Hormuz management fees

Iran and Oman have announced they will jointly research management and service fees for the Strait of Hormuz, reaffirming their sovereign rights over the crucial maritime passage. The joint statement signals a coordinated approach to regulating navigation and services within the strategic waterway.

According to the statement, both countries "agree to maintain dialogue through a joint working group between their foreign ministries." The group's objective is to "reach a consensus on future navigation management in the Strait of Hormuz, as well as the services that can be provided in this regard and related fees, in accordance with international standards."

Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi emphasized on social media platform X that both nations are committed to providing "toll-free safe passage." This assurance comes amidst previous discussions where Iran had indicated plans to levy a maritime service fee, a concept that faced strong opposition from the United States.

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agree to maintain dialogue through a joint working group between their foreign ministries.

The announcement followed a meeting between high-ranking officials from both countries in Muscat, Oman's capital. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf met with Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq and Foreign Minister Albusaidi. Iran's Foreign Ministry had previously stated that the maritime service fees would be implemented after a 60-day grace period.

The joint initiative is also framed within a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Iran and the United States, which involves Iran and Oman, along with other Persian Gulf states, discussing the "future management and maritime services" of the Strait. This collaborative study aims to ensure secure and orderly passage through one of the world's most vital shipping lanes.

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toll-free safe passage.