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US, Iran, and Oman butt heads over fine print of Strait of Hormuz deal - analysis

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Analysis Named sources New plan
  • The US, Iran, and Oman are in a dispute over the precise wording of a deal concerning navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
  • Key phrases in US-Iran and Oman-Iran statements leave room for interpretation regarding fees for passage through the strategic waterway.
  • Washington insists on "no charge" for 60 days and no future permission-based corridor, while Tehran sees potential for future talks on maritime services and costs.

Disagreements over the Strait of Hormuz have shifted from potential conflict to the intricate details of diplomatic language, particularly concerning navigation fees. A US-Iran memorandum and an Oman-Iran joint statement contain carefully worded phrases that have sparked confusion and tension among the involved parties.

no charge, for 60 days only

— US-Iran memorandumThe specific provision regarding passage fees in the US-Iran agreement.

The central point of contention revolves around provisions for passage through the vital chokepoint. The US-Iran memorandum stipulates "no charge" for 60 days, while references to "maritime services" and "associated costs" in the Oman-Iran statement create ambiguity. Washington interprets "no charge" broadly, aiming to prevent any form of tolls, fees, or Iranian-controlled payment systems. Tehran, however, appears to believe these phrases allow for future discussions on maritime services and related expenses.

maritime services and associated costs

— Oman-Iran joint statementPhrases used in the joint statement that have led to interpretation disputes.

An Oman-Iran joint statement, issued after talks in Muscat involving high-level officials from both countries, reaffirmed support for the US-Iran memorandum. It described Oman and Iran as the two coastal states of the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing safe passage in line with international law and their sovereign rights. The statement also indicated that Oman and Iran would continue dialogue through a joint working group to reach an agreement on the future administration of navigation, services, and costs, in consultation with other regional littoral states.

Washington reads “no charge” broadly: no tolls, no fees, no insurance costs, and no Iranian-controlled payment system.

— Senior US officialExplaining the US interpretation of the 'no charge' provision.

Washington's stance is firm: no future arrangement should transform the Strait of Hormuz into a corridor that requires permission or payment. The US official disclosure of the memorandum highlights Iran's commitment to use its "best efforts" to ensure safe passage for commercial vessels without charge for the initial 60-day period. Following this, dialogue with Oman and other Gulf states is planned to define future administration and services within the framework of international law and coastal-state sovereignty.

Tehran appears to see room for later talks over maritime services and related costs.

— The Media LineDescribing Iran's perspective on the potential for future fee discussions.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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