Story perspectives

Oman Proposes Voluntary Fees to Keep Hormuz Open

6/30/2026

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**Oman Weighs Fees**

Oman cites international law, noting Article 26 bans tolls while Article 43 allows service fees for ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
Oman, acting as a neutral mediator, is weighing voluntary service fees to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.
Omani officials told Europeans ships may pay for pollution treatment or navigation assistance.
Gulf states, still reeling from attacks, say the deal fails to counter Iran’s threat.

Right

**Trump Sends Envoy**

U.S. President Donald Trump sent envoy Steve Witkoff and son-in-law Jared Kushner to Doha on June 30 for high-level talks.
Iran declared it alone can lift the Hormuz blockade, rejected a UN-proposed southern route, and warned plans would complicate reopening.
Kazem Gharibabadi chaired the Joint Hormuz Committee meeting with Oman to discuss future strait management.
Abbas Araghchi warned it would raise tensions, noting memorandum steadied oil at $72 a barrel.

History

Historical Context

Today Oman, as a neutral broker, has suggested voluntary service fees for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a move that echoes the 1973 OAPEC oil embargo. In October 1973 Saudi Arabia, Iran and Kuwait cut output by about 5 million barrels per day, sending crude prices from $3 to $12 a barrel and reshaping revenue and security strategies that still influence maritime policy.

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**Oman Weighs Fees**

Oman cites international law, noting Article 26 bans tolls while Article 43 allows service fees for ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
Oman, acting as a neutral mediator, is weighing voluntary service fees to keep the Strait of Hormuz open.
Omani officials told Europeans ships may pay for pollution treatment or navigation assistance.
Gulf states, still reeling from attacks, say the deal fails to counter Iran’s threat.

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