Iran and Oman Near Agreement to Reopen Strait of Hormuz with Service Fees

Iran and Oman are reportedly close to finalizing an agreement to resume maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route, according to Iranian and American sources cited by The New York Times on Tuesday. Under the proposed arrangement, ships entering the Persian Gulf would navigate a route near Iranian shores, while those exiting would pass closer to Omani waters. Iranian officials have indicated they plan to charge a "service fee" to cover environmental, security, personnel, and related costs, with revenues split evenly between Iran and Oman. However, a U.S. official familiar with the talks disputed this characterization, stating that no Iranian approval or tolls would be required for passage through any temporary route established in the strait.

U.S. President Donald Trump has prioritized reopening the Strait of Hormuz after months of closure that pressured international markets and trade flows. He suggested the agreement could advance quickly, with the initial phase focused on reopening the strait and a subsequent phase addressing Iran's nuclear program. Iranian representatives emphasized that reopening depends on lifting the U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports in the Persian Gulf and returning to prior understandings outlined in a memorandum from Islamabad.

The main point of contention remains whether the reopening will guarantee free navigation or effectively grant Iran control over this international waterway, potentially setting a precedent for charging fees on passing vessels. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has warned that allowing any nation to control such a vital maritime passage and impose fees could be dangerous. Within the U.S. administration, Pentagon officials express skepticism, concerned that the agreement might be perceived as a concession to Iran, especially since some routes remain mined, requiring coordination with Tehran for safe passage. Iran views the strait as a significant strategic asset and aims to solidify its influence over shipping traffic as a leverage point not fully utilized before the conflict.