U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has declared that no nation is permitted to impose tolls on vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, reinforcing Washington’s position that the critical waterway must remain open for global trade.
The remarks, made during a visit to Abu Dhabi, underscore the administration's commitment to preventing any new financial or operational barriers to energy shipments through the region.
The diplomatic push comes as markets monitor the Strait for signs of sustained stability.
Brent crude prices have been sensitive to shipping risk in the corridor, and Rubio’s comments serve to reassure traders that the U.S. will actively counter any attempts to monetize or restrict passage.
The statement aligns with broader efforts to normalize traffic flows after periods of heightened tension.
This development coincides with a coordinated effort by the United Nations to evacuate approximately 11,000 sailors from the Strait, as both Iran and the U.S. reportedly back an exit plan.