Oman is resisting pressure from the United States to sever ties with Iran, asserting that its discussions with Tehran are limited to establishing a lawful management system for the Strait of Hormuz. The sultanate has emphasized that any future regime would be implemented only after consultation with the United Nations' International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Oman's Neutrality Under Scrutiny
Traditionally, Oman has served as a neutral mediator in Gulf disputes, maintaining its role as a back-channel communicator. However, its neutrality has boundaries. Oman has been highly critical of Israel's actions regarding international law and recently condemned Iranian attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. Despite this, US officials have expressed doubts about Oman's stance.
US Concerns and Diplomatic Efforts
Former President Donald Trump recently threatened to bomb Oman, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified before the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, stating that only Iran and possibly Oman support Iran's actions in the strait. In response, Omani Ambassador Talal bin Suleiman al-Rahbi held talks with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and State Department officials to assure Washington that Oman opposes any toll system and upholds freedom of navigation.
Iran's Proposed Fee System
Iran has indicated willingness to restore shipping to prewar levels within a month but has established the Persian Gulf Strait Authority (PGSA), which requires ships to seek permission. Iran proposes a non-discriminatory fee for passage, arguing that it would fund environmental remediation and compensate for damage caused by US military operations. However, IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez stated that there is no legal basis for imposing tolls or discriminatory conditions on international straits.
Omani Perspectives on Charges
Some Omani politicians have shown sympathy for charging for specific services. Mohammed Suleiman Tamim al-Hinai, a member of Oman's Shura Council, noted that Oman provides maritime services such as protection, rescue, and navigation support but does not impose transit fees. The US remains suspicious that Oman is privately planning a fee system indistinguishable from tolls.
International Legal Framework
Under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, coastal states may regulate passage for safety, environmental protection, and maritime order, and may impose charges for specific services if applied transparently and without discrimination. The US Treasury has prohibited American citizens from receiving any services from Iran, including safe passage guarantees.
US suspicions about Oman date back to when Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi appeared on US television before the launch of the Israeli-US war, pleading for more time for talks. Oman had been mediating and indicated that an agreement was within reach.
