Story perspectives

Gulf States Warn Iran Over Hormuz Toll; Qatar, Pakistan Mediate

5/23/2026

Left

Gulf States Warn

Five Gulf states warned the Maritime Organization that Iran’s toll proposal for the Strait of Hormuz would set a precedent.
Qatar and Pakistan dispatched diplomatic teams to Tehran, reviving shuttle diplomacy to keep cease-fire talks alive.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir led Pakistan’s delegation, underscoring heightened mediation during fighting fears.
Iran and Oman discuss a fee system that could give Tehran leverage over a route.

Right

**Qatar Re-engages Tehran**

Qatar re-engaged in Tehran talks despite Iranian missile attacks that knocked out 17 % of its LNG export capacity.
A Qatari negotiating team arrived in Tehran on Friday, coordinated with Washington, to seek deal ending the war with Iran.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised Pakistan as primary interlocutor and admirable mediator.
Qatar hosts Al Udeid Air Base, the largest U.S. military installation, highlighting its partnership with Washington.

Center

Qatar Engages Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump said he will stay in Washington for Iran business, missing his son’s wedding.
A Qatari negotiating team arrived in Tehran on Friday to discuss ending the war with Iran, coordinated with United States.
Iran reappointed Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf head of its negotiating team and named Esmail Baghaei spokesperson.
Thirty-five vessels passed through the Strait of Hormuz after permission from the Revolutionary Guards Navy.

History

Historical Context

During the 1973 Yom Kippur War, OAPEC imposed an oil embargo that cut Middle-East exports by roughly 60-70% and drove the price of a barrel from $3 to almost $12—a rise of about 300%. The crisis proved the strategic power of the Strait of Hormuz, a reality now reflected in Qatar, Pakistan and the United States negotiating tolls and cease-fire terms.

1 of 4

Gulf States Warn

Five Gulf states warned the Maritime Organization that Iran’s toll proposal for the Strait of Hormuz would set a precedent.
Qatar and Pakistan dispatched diplomatic teams to Tehran, reviving shuttle diplomacy to keep cease-fire talks alive.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir led Pakistan’s delegation, underscoring heightened mediation during fighting fears.
Iran and Oman discuss a fee system that could give Tehran leverage over a route.

1 / 4