Iran and Oman say they will study arrangements for administering navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and the costs associated with “maritime service fees” for transit. In a joint statement issued after talks in Muscat, the two countries agree to form a joint working group involving their foreign ministries to continue discussions. The statement also indicates they will consult other littoral states and relevant parties.
The move comes as Iran and Oman press ahead with proposals for charges linked to managing the strait, despite US opposition to any tolling system. Iran has previously described the fees as payment for maritime services rather than tolls, and both sides emphasize their sovereignty over territorial waters. Muscat’s foreign minister has stated that any approach they discuss remains committed to “toll-free safe passage.”
Bloomberg and other reports highlight that shipowners and traders are watching closely for any possible introduction of a charge regime for transit, reflecting broader concerns in shipping circles about administration and costs in the strategic waterway.
