US Opposes Hormuz 'Service Fees,' Clashes with Iran Over Nuclear Inspections

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has firmly stated that neither Iran nor Oman can legally impose service fees or tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking to reporters upon arrival in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Rubio emphasized that the strait is an international waterway governed by global law, and any such charges would violate established norms.

This declaration comes as Iran and Oman reportedly discussed establishing a joint working group to manage future maritime traffic and associated service charges in the Strait of Hormuz. While the two nations frame these potential charges as payment for actual services like navigation and safety, the U.S. views any mandatory fee as a de facto transit toll, which it opposes.

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No country can impose tolls or fees in international waters. This is current international law and how it applies to international waterways around the world.

Rubio's visit to the UAE, Kuwait, and Bahrain is part of a broader diplomatic effort to demonstrate solidarity with key allies impacted by regional conflicts. He intends to address concerns raised by Gulf nations regarding the potential U.S.-Iran nuclear deal and Iran's future role. He also commented on proposals for a $300 billion investment fund for Iran's reconstruction, stating it would only be feasible if Tehran commits to becoming a 'normal country.'

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They are wrong, and they know they are wrong. We have 100% agreed to inspections.

Adding to the diplomatic friction, the U.S. and Iran are locked in a dispute over the resumption of IAEA nuclear inspections. President Donald Trump asserted that Iran's claim of no inspection schedule being set is incorrect, insisting on 100% inspection compliance. However, reports suggest that significant gaps remain regarding the specifics of inspection scope and timelines, even as Iran appears to agree in principle to broader inspection concepts.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei countered these claims, stating that no meeting with the IAEA chief had occurred and that there are no plans for inspections of Iranian nuclear facilities damaged by potential U.S. or Israeli attacks. He asserted that no new commitments have been made regarding the nuclear issue, highlighting the ongoing complexities and disagreements surrounding Iran's nuclear program and regional security.

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We have not met with the director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, nor do we have plans to allow the IAEA to inspect Iranian nuclear facilities damaged by the military attacks of the United States and Israel.