Iran held talks with Oman on Hormuz transit fees – NYT

Iran has held talks with Oman about charging fees from ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, with Muscat potentially sharing in the profits, The New York Times reported, citing people familiar with the discussions.

The report said the talks focused on fees for services provided to vessels, rather than tolls charged for transit itself, which would be illegal under international law.

The New York Times said Oman, a US ally, initially dismissed the idea of partnering with Iran in the waterway but has more recently seen potential benefit in the plan.

The report, citing Iranian officials, said Oman had expressed willingness to raise the proposal with Persian Gulf neighbors and the United States, even as Washington pushes for freedom of navigation to be restored in the blockaded strait.