MUSCAT, Oman: Hormuz transit fees could apply to ships using the Strait of Hormuz under an Omani proposal, despite U.S. opposition to new charges on the waterway.
Oman presented a formal plan to the United States and other Western partners for service-related payments by shipping companies.
The plan would frame the payments as fees for maritime services, including route safety and navigation, rather than mandatory tolls.
The New York Times reported the proposal, citing an Iranian official and four diplomats with knowledge of the matter.
Iran and Oman are advancing the plan after conflict disrupted movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil and gas route linking the Persian Gulf to global markets.
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The brief said Iran wants the charges to become compulsory, while Oman’s proposal refers to voluntary payments.
A source familiar with the U.S. position said American negotiators had received the proposal and planned to raise concerns with Omani officials.
The United States opposes any new financial requirement in the strait and says the route must remain open for international shipping.
