Full Breakdown
US Rejects Hormuz Toll Proposals as Interim Iran Deal Restores Shipping
6/25/2026, 10:28:05 PM
US Rejection of Hormuz Toll Proposals
Secretary of State Marco Rubio told Gulf Cooperation Council members that a fee for crossing the Strait of Hormuz is “unacceptable” and “a game of semantics.” He said “no country on the planet” supports tolls, warning that fees would create “chaos.” Trump echoed the stance, calling a toll-inclusive deal a “game changer” that would be rejected.
Background & Context
After months of naval disruption, US and Iran signed a 14-point memorandum of understanding that reopened the strait and set a 60-day window. Iran and Oman issued a joint statement on traffic management that raised concerns about possible “associated costs.” The deal also authorized US naval escorts in Omani waters, limiting Iran’s ability to close the waterway.
Data & Impact
In a recent 24-hour period, 72 vessels moved about 20 million barrels of oil, restoring volumes. Kpler reported roughly 4.8 million barrels per day exiting the strait, and Windward noted 31 transits, raising daily traffic to 35-40 ships—still well below the pre-war average of 130. Brent fell to $72.48 and WTI to $70 per barrel.
Official Statements & Responses
Rubio said US will stay aligned with Gulf allies. Secretary Chris Wright warned Iran cannot close the Strait of Hormuz, citing US naval escorts as deterrence. Oman opposes tolls. Iran’s chief negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf called US promises “broken” and accused Washington of “trash talks.” IMO announced an evacuation of 11,000 seafarers aboard 500-600 vessels through northern and southern corridors.
Criticism & Opposition
Gulf states warned the interim deal omits Iran’s ballistic-missile program and support for proxies such as Hezbollah and Hamas, fearing an emboldened adversary. Critics also flagged the $300 billion reconstruction fund as a source for military rebuilding.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources disagree on whether Iran will impose “associated costs” after the 60-day window; Iran-Oman joint statement is cited as hinting at fees, while US officials say no country supports tolls. Vessel-count data vary, with reports of 31 transits in a day versus 72 ships in 24 hours. Details of reconstruction fund’s size and terms remain unspecified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You can call it a toll, you can call it a fee, whatever you want to call it — it’s a game of semantics,” — Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State
- “I know of no country on the planet that supports tolling or fees for the use of the strait,” — Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State
- “Iran will not have the ability to close the Strait of Hormuz going forward,” — Chris Wright, U.S. Energy Secretary
- “The only crop we’re harvesting is what you planted: decades of mistrust,” — Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iran’s chief negotiator
What’s Next
Technical talks between US and Iranian delegations are set for June 29-30 in Switzerland, covering nuclear inspections, reconstruction funding, and future maritime service charges. IMO’s evacuation will continue over weeks, and Gulf states will monitor compliance with navigation agreements.
