Iran Requires Strait of Hormuz Permits, Eyes Vessel Fees With Oman Amid Trump Objections
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · May 22
Iran Requires Strait of Hormuz Permits, Eyes Vessel Fees With Oman Amid Trump Objections
8 articles · Updated · The New York Times · May 22
Iran’s new Persian Gulf Strait Authority said Wednesday it had set a Strait of Hormuz “management supervision area” and that ships would need permits to pass.
Talks with Oman are exploring a payment system for vessels using the chokepoint, part of Tehran’s effort to turn its control over the route into revenue.
That push follows late-February U.S. and Israeli attacks after which Iran nearly halted commercial traffic through the strait, disrupting shipping and lifting energy prices.
Trump rejected any tolls on Thursday, saying the passage should remain free because it is an international waterway, underscoring how far Washington and Tehran remain from a settlement.
As Iran's Hormuz tollbooth collects millions, is paying the fee now the lesser evil for the global shipping industry?
Why is U.S. ally Oman partnering with Iran on a toll system that directly challenges Washington's red lines?
If Iran's Hormuz toll succeeds, which of the world's other critical shipping lanes could be next to fall?