Gulf states have backed a proposal from Oman that would allow Tehran to collect voluntary fees for the use of the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reports, citing a regional source. The initiative aims to restore uninterrupted shipping and oil trade following the conflict between the US and Israel against Iran.
US President Donald Trump, who unexpectedly called off a series of airstrikes over the weekend as part of a shift in strategy, stated that “good negotiations” are ongoing with Iran but warned he would resume strikes if diplomatic efforts fail. Meanwhile, Tehran denies any intention to resume negotiations with the US.
History of the Conflict Around the Strait
Washington resumed its air campaign in early July, aiming to weaken Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz, through which about one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas supplies were transported before the conflict. Following US and Israeli strikes on February 28, Iran effectively closed the strait to all vessels except its own.
An agreement reached in June between the US and Iran partially restored shipping, but it collapsed in early July after Iran attacked vessels using a route not approved by Tehran.
Proposals and International Parallels
Iran has proposed a joint management of the strait with Oman, which controls the opposite shore, and suggested charging ships a service fee for passage. The US insists on a return to the pre-war regime of free navigation without any payments, stating that mandatory fees would violate international law.
Under the Omani proposal, Iran would not have sole control over the strait, and all contributions would be voluntary, a Reuters source reported. A similar system is already in place in the Malacca Strait, where Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore offer ships the option to voluntarily fund navigation, environmental protection, and search and rescue operations.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi discussed the Strait of Hormuz issue with his counterparts from Oman and Saudi Arabia on July 27, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation, according to the Iranian Foreign Ministry.
Source: The Straits Times
