Oman has formally rejected Iran's proposal to impose transit fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, escalating the diplomatic standoff over the world's most critical oil chokepoint.
Badr Albusaidi, speaking to a French media outlet, stated that the Sultanate opposes any charges for ships transiting the strait, while signaling support only for fees related to maritime safety and environmental protection.
The rejection underscores the deepening rift between regional powers over control of the waterway, which handles roughly a fifth of global oil consumption.
The diplomatic friction comes as shipping companies face mounting operational risks in the corridor.
Stena Bulk recently withdrew its crew from a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating transit risk, highlighting the tangible impact of geopolitical tensions on commercial operations.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also firmly rejected any proposal to impose tolls or fees on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, declaring the channel an international waterway that must remain open to global trade.