Foreign minister says Muscat backs free navigation while remaining open to cooperation on safety and environmental protection measures
Oman has ruled out supporting transit fees for ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, while indicating that discussions on charges related to maritime services could still take place under international legal frameworks.
Speaking to Monte Carlo International Radio, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi said Muscat does not support imposing fees on vessels using the strategic waterway. However, he noted that future arrangements covering maritime services, including navigational safety, emergency response and environmental protection, could be considered.
Albusaidi said such mechanisms would resemble existing models used in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore, where charges relate to maritime support services rather than transit itself.
Muscat reaffirms commitment to free navigation
Meanwhile, the foreign minister reiterated Oman’s commitment to maintaining safe, secure and unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasized that Muscat continues supporting the implementation of the memorandum of understanding between the United States and Iran and remains committed to regional de-escalation.
Albusaidi also stressed that any future understandings with Iran concerning the strategic waterway would fully comply with international law. He said Oman remains committed to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and insisted that any new arrangements must operate within its legal framework.
Regional stability remains a priority
The Omani minister further highlighted what he described as a shared Gulf consensus on reducing regional tensions and preventing further attacks affecting maritime security.
He said Gulf states remain focused on implementing existing agreements, preserving regional stability and ensuring uninterrupted commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries nearly one-fifth of global oil consumption and serves as one of the world’s most important energy corridors.
Albusaidi also stated that recent regional tensions have not affected Oman’s relations with the United States, describing bilateral ties as being founded on mutual respect and continued cooperation.
His remarks come as diplomatic efforts continue to strengthen maritime security while supporting stable international trade through the strategically important waterway.
