Oman, a US ally, has put forward a proposal for collecting "voluntary" fees from ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a plan that includes cooperation with Iran and has generated significant attention. The proposal, shared with the United States and other allies, aims to fund services that enhance navigational safety and preparedness for emergencies in the critical waterway.
Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi stated that the fees would be similar to those collected in the Strait of Malacca and Singapore, where contributions are voluntary and support safe passage. These services could include improving navigation, protecting waters from pollution, and increasing readiness for accidents. The minister, however, has expressed Oman's continued opposition to Iran's direct toll scheme for the strait.
Despite Oman's characterization of the fees as voluntary, Iranian officials have insisted they would be obligatory. This difference in interpretation highlights potential friction points in the plan. The Strait of Malacca's Aids to Navigation Fund, operated by Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, has collected approximately $23 million over 15 years. In contrast, Iran projects that tolls on the Strait of Hormuz could generate as much as $40 billion annually.
The development follows a joint statement last week from Tehran and Muscat, indicating they would not rule out collecting fees in the Strait of Hormuz, even after the Trump administration asserted that Iran cannot impose tolls.
The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint, overseeing the transport of roughly 20% of the world's oil supply. Historically, the international shipping route has been open and free for the more than 130 vessels that navigate its waters daily. The proposed fees could fundamentally alter this status.
The United States has previously voiced strong opposition to any toll or fee scheme in the Strait of Hormuz, with President Trump repeatedly emphasizing the need for the waterway to remain open to all shipping. It remains uncertain how the U.S. will respond to Oman's proposed service fee plan, given these past assertions. The ongoing tensions in the region underscore the strategic importance of the strait.