Oman, Iran Discuss Strait of Hormuz Tolls on Joint Sovereignty Claim
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 9
Oman, Iran Discuss Strait of Hormuz Tolls on Joint Sovereignty Claim
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 9
Summary
High-level talks in Muscat saw Oman and Iran discuss asserting joint sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz and charging ships for passage, framed officially as security and environmental fees.
The proposal would affect one of the world's most critical energy chokepoints and could expose Oman to U.S. sanctions or military pressure if it aligns with Tehran on transit payments.
Oman's economic position has recently strengthened under Vision 2040: it rose 19 places to 39th in the 2026 Index of Economic Freedom, cut debt to below 40% of GDP and lifted GDP per capita to $21,645.
Iran offers a stark contrast, with inflation around 50%, food prices near 100%, unemployment estimated above the official 10% rate and GDP per capita at $3,415.
The dispute highlights a strategic choice for Muscat between deeper coordination with Iran in Hormuz and closer integration with Gulf partners and the United States.