• Iran and Oman are in talks to impose a permanent toll on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, according to an Iranian envoy.
  • Reopening the strait, which has been disrupted for weeks amid regional tensions, will require countries to pay for passage.
  • The proposal has drawn caution from Oman, which emphasizes adherence to international law and freedom of navigation.

A New Regime for Hormuz

Iran's envoy to Oman, Amin-Nejad, said on Thursday that Tehran and Muscat are negotiating a framework for joint management of the Strait of Hormuz that would include tolls on passing ships. "Re-opening the strait will entail countries paying," he told reporters in Muscat, adding that the revenue could be used for reconstruction projects. The strait, a critical chokepoint for about 20% of global oil transit, has seen traffic slashed by weeks of clashes and blockades linked to broader geopolitical tensions.

Oman has publicly pushed back against unilateral tolls. A senior Omani official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the sultanate is "committed to international law" and free navigation, but confirmed that discussions with Iran are ongoing. The official added that any agreement must be consistent with existing maritime conventions. The dynamic has drawn scrutiny from Washington, which has opposed similar proposals in the past, viewing them as coercive.

Industry observers debate the legality of such a toll. "If implemented, it could shift cost burdens onto shippers and insurers, potentially raising freight rates and oil prices," said an analyst at a Gulf-based research firm. "But it's unclear whether it would be seen as a legitimate revenue mechanism or a coercive control." The discussions come as Iran also seeks to monetize strategic chokepoints amid sanctions and reconstruction needs.

Attempts to reach the U.S. State Department for comment were unsuccessful. The situation remains fluid, with market participants watching for any formal announcement. A deal, if struck, would mark a significant shift in how the world's most important oil passage is managed.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the timing of the envoy's remarks; they were made on Thursday, not Wednesday.